By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News |
Barbados: New Opposition Senators Sworn In After Historic Election
Following the February 11, 2026, general election, where Prime Minister Mia Mottley and the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) secured a third consecutive 30-0 sweep of the House of Assembly, new faces are entering the Senate to provide a voice for the opposition.
- Karina Goodridge: The leader of the Friends of Democracy (FOD) was sworn in as an Opposition Senator at State House today. Goodridge, accompanied by her family and FOD General Secretary Steve Blackett, pledged to honor the commitments made during her party’s debut campaign.
- Ryan Walters: Representing the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), Walters was also sworn in as an Opposition Senator. After contesting the St. Michael North West seat in the general election, Walters stated he is ready to provide strong representation despite the DLP not holding any seats in the lower house.
- Political Context: Because the BLP won all 30 seats, these appointments are critical for maintaining a semblance of the Westminster “Checks and Balances” system in the Upper House.
Barbados: Hurdles for Campaign Finance Reform
In the wake of the recent election, legal experts are highlighting the massive challenges facing potential campaign finance reform.
- The Current Limit: Dr. Ronnie Yearwood, senior law lecturer at UWI Cave Hill, noted that the current legal limit under the Representation of the People Act is just $10 per voter (roughly $100,000 per candidate in an average constituency).
- The Reality Gap: Experts argue this figure is woefully outdated for modern, high-tech campaigning. Dr. Yearwood warned that without a comprehensive suite of laws, the “hyper-majoritarian” system will continue to operate without transparent financial accountability.
International: Search Continues at Royal Lodge Following Andrew’s Arrest
A high-stakes criminal investigation in the United Kingdom has entered its second day, with police focusing on the former residence of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew).
- The Arrest: Andrew was arrested on Thursday morning at his home on the Sandringham estate on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was held for 11 hours before being released under investigation.
- Ongoing Searches: While searches at Sandringham have concluded, Thames Valley Police and specialist teams continued their search of the Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate today.
- The Allegations: The investigation centers on claims that Andrew shared confidential government trade information with the late Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a UK trade envoy in 2010.
- Palace Reaction: King Charles III has reportedly stated that the “law must take its course,” though reports suggest the Palace was not given advance warning of the arrest.
