After facing backlash, the government of Barbados has backtracked on the decision to rename November 30th as Barbados National Day officially.

On Tuesday, the government announced that November 30 will no longer be known as Independence Day, but will be called Barbados National Day to incorporate celebrations for the anniversary of the country becoming a republic.

The apparent about-turn led to criticism on various social media platforms.

Minister Mia Mottley said she had “seen and heard the comments this afternoon on social media”, and defended the name change in a statement late Tuesday night.

READ: ‘Barbados National Day’ name change sparks backlash

However, it appears the government had a change of heart late Wednesday night.

Minister of Home Affairs, Information and Public Affairs, Wilfred Abrahams, said the response of Barbadians from all walks of life have been swift and vocal, with the overwhelming majority not in favour of the change or of its timing.

Abrahams, who is also Chairman of the Cabinet Sub-committee on national events in November, released a statement saying it is “clear that now is not the time”.

“I will recommend that the status quo be preserved and that we celebrate November 30th 2022 as Independence Day,” he said.

This decision comes after the president of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) Dr Ronnie Yearwood called the decision a “stupid, downright callous and foolish move”.