It is the view of former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell, that Zita Barnwell should relinquish her post as a senator and make way for lawyer Israel Bruce.
Mitchell was speaking on Boom FM following the NDP 40th convention, to which he says he was invited but decided not to attend since according to him their policies need urgent streamlining
Mitchell told OMG host Dwight “Bing” Joseph, that in Barbados now, Mottley has appointed some seven women to serve in the cabinet, however nowhere in the recent elections was there any talk about women coming forward.
“People were chosen on the basis of their ability, you cannot use the women’s agenda to promote a particular individual”.
Mitchell says he knows the family, he says he appointed her father to be honoured by the Queen, but he thinks that Zita should realize she is not going to be a candidate.
“I think the graceful thing to do is to step aside and leave the way open for somebody else to be nominated in the parliament”.
Mitchell told Dwight Joseph that he thinks the leader Dr Godwin Friday is leaving the whole thing to play out rather than make a decision.
“I think the lady losing so badly garnering only 40 votes, should be invited to resign”.
The former leader said when somebody is about to resign you should have a chat with them and make them feel comfortable.
“There is room in the party for her, all hands on deck, we will look after you, but please step aside and let us move forward”.
Mitchell said a young lawyer like Israel Bruce who has been knocking on the doors of representation for many years even when he was around, should be looked upon.