The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) is moving to restructure and reconnect with the public following the February 11 General Election.
Stephen Lashley, who was appointed Acting President at a General Council meeting on March 24, filling the vacancy left by former party president and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, said the party was re-examining its purpose and relevance while engaging more directly with Barbadians.
“We have to listen to Barbadians as to how they wish the Democratic Labour Party to reshape itself,” Lashley said at the party’s first press conference at its George Street Headquarters since the General Election.
He added that outreach to constituency branches and members across the island would be intensified, with the aim of reigniting engagement and rebuilding public trust.
Lashley acknowledged recent electoral setbacks but said lessons have been learned.
“The public of Barbados has spoken very strongly in favour of seeing a Democratic Labour Party that is focused, that is united, and that is full of purpose,” he said.
He also stressed that regaining the confidence of Barbadians was central to the party’s role in strengthening democracy.
DLP general secretary Pedro Shepherd said: “Today marks another step forward as the party continues to strengthen its presence, sharpens its voice, and deepens its engagement with the people of Barbados”.
He added the party was “reordering ourselves internally while continuing our commitment to be a responsible, responsive, and effective voice in the national conversation”.
Senator Ryan Walters, who will chair the spokespersons group, introduced the team, describing it as a collective voice representing both the party and the concerns of Barbadians.
The spokespersons will focus on key issues including the cost of living, housing, jobs, education, healthcare, and small business. Members named include:
• Corey Greenidge – Legal Affairs, Attorney General and Criminal Justice
• Pedro Greaves – Sports and Culture
• Rasheed Belgrave – Tourism and International Transport
• Ian Griffith – Housing, Transport and Works
• Amoy Gilding-Bourne – Agriculture and Fisheries
• Quincy Jones – Education and Trade
• Jason Phillips – Small Business and Entrepreneurship
• Felicia Dujon – Health and Elder Affairs
• Janine Butcher – Youth and Community Empowerment
• Ryan Walters – Finance and Economic Affairs
Walters described the announcement as phase one of the party’s restructuring. “It’s just the beginning… as we go forward, we will rejig and other voices will be added to enhance how we communicate with the public.”
He added that the spokespersons’ role was to scrutinise government policies, offer solutions, and maintain accountability, ensuring the party remains closely connected to the concerns of Barbadians.
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