Barbados became a republic and named native Rihanna a national hero

For Bajans, this is a new day, including Rihanna on the island! After nearly 400 years of British rule, Barbados abolished Queen Elizabeth II’s head of state status and transitioned to the Republic for the first time. In the ceremony from Monday evening to early Tuesday, the New Republic was sworn in as the first president and appointed Rihanna as a national hero.

First President of Barbados

According to the Associated Press, the Barbados Parliament elected Sandra Mason as the president of the country in October. Sandra served as the former Governor of Barbados, but also served as a lawyer, judge and former “Venezuela, Colombia, Chile and Brazil ambassador.” Just before the dawn of the island’s 55th Independence Day, officials took the oath of office as the new president.

“Today, debate and words have become actions, President Mason said. “Today, we set the compass as a new direction. “

For those who don’t know, Barbados actually gained independence from Britain in 1966. However, it is reported that discussions about separation from the UK began more than 20 years ago. Despite the decoupling, Barbados will remain part of the British Commonwealth, which is a voluntary association with more than 54 countries associated with this European country.

Prince Charles speaks

Prince Charles, Queen Elizabeth’s eldest son and heir, attended the ceremony.

Prince Charles said in a speech: “From the darkest days of our past, and the shocking slavery atrocities that have tarnished our history forever, the people of this island have opened their way with extraordinary perseverance.” “Tonight. You write the next chapter of your country’s story. You are the guardians of your heritage.”

Queen Elizabeth also wrote a “blessing” letter to President Mason and Bajans. She congratulated the changes in the new republic and said she looked forward to “the friendship between our two countries and our two peoples will continue.”

Rihanna becomes a national hero

Nevertheless, the star of the ceremony seems to be Rihanna, the biggest star in Barbados. She suddenly appeared at a celebration just a few miles from her hometown of Bridgetown. There, Prime Minister Mia Motley declared RiRi as the national hero of Barbados.According to Kevz Politics, Rihanna is The second woman and the youngest Won the honorary title.

President Mason formally awarded this noble honor in a separate ceremony on Tuesday. Rihanna won the medal and took the microphone to express her gratitude.

Rihanna said: “Prime Minister Mia Motley thank you very much for paying tribute to me in this way.” “I traveled the world and received multiple awards and recognitions, but nothing beats recognition in the soil where you grew up. More importantly.”