EDITOR, The Tribune.

I am writing in response to Sir Ronald Sanders’ column concerning Barbados. The 30th of November marked a sad day for many Barbados people. A republic came into effect without a referendum or the consent of the population. After nearly 400 years under The Crown we have tossed all our history away for a republic for which there was little demand.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s administration thrust this on our country with indecent haste. There was little discussion and no public consultation.

An anti-democractic manoeuvre backed up by her pliant Cabinet and MP’s fearful for their jobs… At the private ceremony inaugurating the event with the public not allowed Prince Charles was seen smiling with Mottley as she took our Queen from us.

We the loyal population were far from smiling. Such a profound change and we could not have a vote whether we agreed or not.

Over the past few years there has been a marked increase in Communist Chinese influence in Barbados. Chinese people, rarely seen here previously, are now seen everywhere buying up businesses and mingling with government officials and undertaking projects for the Government. It would appear that this influence is growing at a rapid pace.

China seems to want to dominate the Caribbean. The Queen as Head of State with our Parliament, an impartial judiciary and courts has been a hallmark of the history in this region.

As these foundations are taken from us by greedy politicians coming under China’s sway it will soon result in Barbados and any other of our neighbours who follow this path becoming vassal states of an increasingly hostile China.

The independence we gained from The United Kingdom will be taken from us. This frightening prospect is very unsettling.

BRYAN IM ALAN

Bridgetown, Barbados.

December 2, 2021.