It has come as no surprise to independent observers that the Barbados government has to labour to govern as a result of its 2-seat margin. Prime Minister Stuart finds himself in a position where making decisions is heavily influenced by the political considerations. Now that the E11 faction has been effectively quelled and its whip – Minister of Finance Chris Sinckler – had to publicly throw himself at the mercy of the Prime Minister in the Big Interview with the Nation newspaper, an interview which will stain his legacy and perhaps has ended his political ambition to be Prime Minister of Barbados.
AND Perennial discontent Minister David Estwick made known his recent dissatisfaction in January that he will speak out on economic issues (words to this effect). Two weeks later he was reluctantly given an audience with the Prime Minister and cabinet to present a proposal of a lifeline deal sponsored by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). To be expected there was loud clamour in the public space about the workability of Estwick’s UAE deal. It has been three weeks since Estwick presented to the Cabinet of Barbados and it has been three weeks the public, including local media, has gone silent. Yet again the politicians have been able to ‘’manipulate’ the voice of the people by remaining silent. And off we go to the next topic the planned construction at Lower Greys.
BU recalls the promise by late Prime Minister David Thompson to usher in a level of transparency never seen in Barbados. The people on the 2007 general election campaign trail were lured by the promise of his party enacting transparency legislation as a priority if elected. Stuart led the party to a second win in 2013 despite not being able to proclaim transparency laws in the first term when he assume leadership after Thompson died in Office. One is left to ask Barbadians what happened? Are we happy not holding our governments accountable?
When the Estwick’s UAE proposal was leaked BU eagerly looked forward to serious debate from all quarters of civil society. There was intense debate for 7-days and now there is silence once more. Where is the pride of place which Barbados has enjoyed under Barrow and Adams? We have to listen to Prime Ministers of St. Vincent, Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts and Barbadians wait to hear the voice of OUR Prime Minister.
Barbadians have been asked to play their part in the interest of supporting the national economy. Depending on who is listened to 3,000 to 6,000 public sector have made the ultimate sacrifice, no doubt the same in the private sector. While the a repeat of 1991 is happening we have a government who remains committed to a combative mode instead of calming and inspiring the populace by their words and actions. Whether the government likes it or not a similar number of Barbadians voted for the BLP in the last general election and this should should guide its communication with the public to build consensus.
If only out of respect for Barbadians the Prime Minister owes it to Barbadians to pronounce on the Estwick UAE proposal. As usual we the people wait on those sworn to serve them.
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