DLP rift deepens

Conflicting statements from officials of the Democratic Labour Party continue to fuel notions of a deep rooted conflict within the political institution. A statement issued by Acting General Secretary Pedro Shepherd, and dated May 21, 2024, sought to clarify what he called misinformation in the public domain regarding the suspension of General Secretary Steve Blackett and Party President Dr. Ronnie Yearwood. He says Mr. Blackett was suspended on May 9 and Dr. Yearwood on May 16. Recent actions by both while under suspension, including the summoning of an emergency meeting of the DLP's Executive Council, have been called in to question. However, another statement also dated May 21, was posted on the DLP's Facebook page today. It notes the Party, elected leadership and Executive Council does not condone and deeply regrets the deplorable conduct of Mr. Shepherd. The statement further notes public utterances made by Mr. Shepherd following an alleged break in at the Party's George Street headquarters on May 16 contravene the DLP and its Constitution. The notice also reaffirms the positions of Dr. Yearwood and Mr. Blackett as the Party's President and General Secretary respectively. When contacted, both Mr. Blackett and Dr. Yearwood declined official comment. Subscribe to CBC News: http://www.youtube.com/cbcbarbados Connect with the CBC News Barbados Website: https://www.cbc.bb/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CBCNews.bb/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbcnewsbarbados Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBCBARBADOS #CBCTV8 #CBCNewsNight