The Caribbean island-nation of Barbados became the latest to join the list of Republics in the world as on 30th November it officially removed Queen Elizabeth II – the head of the British Crown, as the head of the state. This comes nearly after 4 centuries of it becoming a British Colony.
An overnight ceremony held at National Heroes Square, at the capital of Bridgetown marked the transition of the new republic, was attended by several leaders and dignitaries of the state and the world, that included the Crown Prince of the British Crown Prince Charles, spotting a dazzling display of fireworks, dance, and music.
Sworn in as the first president of the Republic of Barbados is 72-year-old Dame Sandra Prunella Mason. Prime Minister Mia Mottley declared singer Rihanna who is a native of the country, a national hero. However, there are no plans to bring a change in either of the flags, coat of arms, national pledge, or national anthem of Barbados, as per reports. The country will also continue to celebrate its Independence Day on November 30. But terms like “royal” and “crown” will be officially dropped from references and official documents henceforth. Certain institutes such as The Royal Barbados Police Force will drop ‘Royal’ and will be renamed as the Barbados Police Force. Further, the crown lands will now be converted to state lands.
Also at the event was the country’s national hero – Rihanna, the second woman to hold the title in the history of Barbados after Sarah Ann Gill, a religious pioneer who died in 1866. Born and brought up on the Caribbean island, she was appointed as the ambassador for culture and youth in 2018. The title is being seen as the acknowledgment of her contributions and skills towards the change. Her ensemble to the occasion was a Bottega Veneta brown dress with a halter design wrapped over the neck and matching flowing brown silhouette. The dress was perfectly being complimented with the golden eye shadow, chunky studs, and braided hairstyle, and has been the talk of social media.
