Friends of Democracy Unveils Vision for Barbados at Bank Hall Manifesto Launch

At a gathering last night, the Friends of Democracy (FOD) political party took to the stage at Bank Hall to unveil its manifesto, outlining a bold agenda for change as Barbados heads into the 2026 general election cycle.

Under the leadership of Karina Goodridge, the party’s president and candidate for St. Philip West, FOD’s manifesto presentation drew supporters, and others interest in hearing the presentation.  Founded only recently as a political party, the Friends of Democracy has quickly sought to carve out space as a credible centre-left social democratic option focused on grassroots engagement and direct solutions to everyday challenges facing Barbadians. 

A Message of Purpose and Renewal

Goodridge opened with a message which stared that  democracy must be reinvigorated, and politics needs to be reconnected to the people it serves. She challenged long-standing narratives of voter disengagement and urged Barbadians to believe that their voices, when organized and heard, can reshape the nation’s future.

Throughout the presentation, themes of economic empowerment, job creation, and community resilience dominated the discussion. Goodridge stressed that the high cost of living and employment uncertainties are key concerns for everyday families — issues that FOD plans to tackle with fresh ideas grounded in social democracy. 

Key Policy Highlight

Among the major commitments outlined in the manifesto were:

• Tax free food industry  – offering to abolish 17.5% Value Added Tax (VAT)  on all imported food items.
•  A new stand-alone, centrally located, mini hospital, accident and emergency building
• Establish eleven (11) Parish Food Centres to put the most basic and nutritious food items in your pantry tax and duty free
• Early diagnostic testing & inclusive learning support
• Support for Seniors: A pledge to provide tax relief, abolishing of taxes on pensions, for older citizens, recognizing the financial pressures that many retirees currently face and affirming the party’s dedication to dignity and support for all stages of life.  
• Make Home Ownership attainable by implementing a rent to own policy, low cost quality housing, reverse mortgages

Much of the manifesto’s appeal lay in its promise to tackle voter apathy and political disillusionment head-on. Goodridge called on established parties to be more accountable and transparent, urging political leadership that listens deeply and delivers concretely for citizens. 

Though still a relatively new entrant — the party only launched its slate of 12 candidates for the upcoming election earlier this year — FOD is positioning itself as a credible alternative to the traditional political options in Barbados. Goodridge’s message was clear: Friends of Democracy is not merely a protest movement but a purposeful force for practical change.