Barbados has officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and become the world’s newest republic.
Dame Sandra Mason was sworn in as president in an evening ceremony in the capital, Bridgetown. The ceremony, which marked the country’s 55th anniversary of independence, was attended by the Prince of Wales and Barbadian artist Rihanna.
In a speech, Prince Charles addressed the Caribbean island’s “appalling crime of slavery.”
Barbados’ new age brings an end to Britain’s decades of dominance, which included more than 200 years as a transatlantic slave traffic hub.
A final salute was given to the British monarchy, and the Royal Standard flag was lowered and replaced to mark the official shift of power.
Despite the constitutional status change, Prince Charles spoke as the event’s guest of honor, reiterating the two countries’ enduring relations.
He described the moment as a new beginning before being awarded the prestigious Order of Freedom of Barbados by the new president. The Queen sent the country her “warmest good wishes” for “happiness, peace and prosperity in the future” and said the nation holds a “special place” in her heart.
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Dame Sandra Mason, 72, the island’s governor-general since 2018, was named as president-elect of the nation following a vote in parliament last month. She now replaces the Queen as the head of state. “Vessel Republic Barbados has set sail on her maiden voyage. May she weather all storms and land our country and citizens safely on the horizons and shores which are ahead of us,” she said after being sworn in.
Barbados announced its plan to become a republic last year, but it will remain within the Commonwealth.
Formerly known as the British Commonwealth, the Commonwealth of Nations is a loose association of former British colonies and current dependencies, along with some countries that have no historical ties to Britain.
Leading national figures, including Prime Minister Mia Mottley, swore allegiance to Barbados in front of the new president at the ceremony, which lasted for several hours.
She later announced that pop star Rihanna would be named a national hero by President Mason. The artist and businesswoman, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, was previously named an ambassador by her home country in 2018.
“May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honour to your nation,” Ms Mottley said, in reference to one of Rihanna’s songs.