DLP Leader Ralph Thorne Addresses Internal Concerns, Emphasizes Commitment to Barbados

The Leader of the Opposition Democratic Labour Party (DLP), Ralph Thorne, has addressed concerns about internal frictions within the party, affirming its unwavering commitment to the people of Barbados.

Speaking at a news conference at his Hinks Street office on Thursday, Thorne said the DLP’s primary focus remains on serving the nation and tackling pressing issues.

“We are pressing on. We are pressing on with the people’s business. The people’s business is more urgent than any strife that has taken place elsewhere,” Thorne said, setting a resolute tone for the party’s future actions.

Detailing the DLP’s grassroots engagement, Thorne outlined the party’s efforts to connect with communities across the island.

“Two Saturdays ago, a group of us, about 20 direct, went into the constituency of Christ Church South,” he said.

“This Saturday … we are going to meet at a point where three constituencies converge: St Michael North, St Michael West Central, and St Michael North East. And we will touch you too, St Michael North West and Cave Hill. That is what this party is doing.”

Thorne refuted any suggestion that internal conflicts were impeding the party’s operations, asserting that the DLP is more focused than ever on its mission to address the needs of Barbadians.

“We are going to the people. We don’t want to sacrifice the people’s business for this salacious business,” he stated firmly. “This business, the people’s business, is taking priority.”

He elaborated on the DLP’s strategic preparations for upcoming elections, underscoring the party’s determination to be ready.

“I told you on the last occasion we were here, and people laughed at me. I said we intend to be ready when an election is called. A 69-year-old Democratic Labour Party will not sit down and allow an election to be called unless we are ready,” Thorne said.

He highlighted that the party is actively working on its manifesto, with ideas already in progress to address the country’s key issues.

“We are making ourselves ready. I told you on the last occasion that we are about to write a manifesto and that the ideas for that manifesto are in train,” he added. (RG)