Rihanna and Prince Charles
They’re celebrating in Barbados
First event of the Republic of Barbados (from right): Prince Charles, singer Rihanna, President Dame Sandra Mason …
© imago / ZUMA Press
Rihanna is declared the country’s national heroine at the Republic of Barbados’ first event. Prince Charles was also present.
Great honor for singer Rihanna (33). At an event on Monday evening (November 29) in Bridgetown, Barbados, she was honored as the national heroine of her homeland. Prime Minister Mia Mottley (56) presented the artist with the national hero prize.
Farewell to the Commonwealth
The event also served as the inauguration ceremony for the country’s first female president, Dame Sandra Mason, 72. Barbados officially deposed Queen Elizabeth II (95) as head of state and became a republic on November 30th.
The British heir to the throne Prince Charles (73) was also present at the ceremony to honor Barbados’ exit from the Commonwealth. “The establishment of this republic means a fresh start,” said Charles in his speech on site. “From the darkest days of our past and the appalling cruelty of slavery that forever taints our history, the people of this island have made their way with extraordinary valor.”
He was also honored: In a special ceremony, the representative of the royal family received the Order of Freedom of Barbados – the highest honor in the country.
Via Instagram Prince Charles was still unusually emotional: “I feel deeply committed to this very special country, its future prosperity and well-being. I will always consider myself a friend of Barbados.”