Democratic Labour Party Denounces Unauthorized Social Media Use Amid Turmoil

The Democratic Labour Party has denounced what it called the unauthorised use of its social media platforms by a group it described as “disaffected supporters of the party”.

In the latest development of ongoing turmoil within the opposition party that deepened with the expulsion of its president and general secretary, acting president Andre Worrell pointed to a meeting held on Sunday evening at the Ellerslie School, charging that a livestream of the event was not approved by the party’s hierarchy.

He denounced what he called the “unauthorised use” of the party’s social media platforms by a group of “disaffected supporters”.

“Preliminary investigations have revealed a small group of members have effectively commandeered these platforms and are now using them in a manner that undermines the party’s integrity and objectives,” Worrell said. He added that the party was investigating reports of missing equipment, believed to be in the possession of another member.

“These actions not only show a blatant disregard for the party’s constitution but also potentially violate the laws of Barbados,” he added.

“Such behaviour, driven by desperation, is deeply regrettable and stands in stark contrast to the values we uphold,” said Worrell.

News broke late Thursday night that the DLP’s General Council had met, received an extensive report from its disciplinary committee on an investigation into charges tabled against the suspended president and general secretary, and recommended their expulsion from the party.

But at the Ellerslie Secondary School meeting of “concerned DLP members”, former president Dr Yearwood passionately defended general secretary Blackett and made a strong case for generational transition within the party.

Praising Blackett’s selflessness, Dr Yearwood said: “What I admired about Steve Blackett is that he understood . . . that his season was at an end. And his purpose was to usher in the next generation.”

The expelled president argued that the future of both the party and the country depended on embracing new leadership and fostering opportunities for younger generations.

“Barbados as a whole is suffering because of the lack of opportunities for our young people and our young women to be ushered in as the next generation,” he said.

Yearwood further expressed his hope that more senior members of the DLP would understand that the health and longevity of the party depend on a smooth and willing transition of leadership.