Khaleel Kothdiwala sworn in as Barbados’ youngest and first Muslim Senator

Khaleel Kothdiwala, a 23-year-old youth activist, has been sworn in as the youngest Senator in the history of Barbados. His appointment also marks the first time a Muslim has served in the nation's Senate.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the State House before President Hon. Jeffrey Bostic, with Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and other senior government officials in attendance. Kothdiwala’s appointment follows a recommendation made by Prime Minister Mottley four years ago when he was 18, though constitutional age requirements previously prevented his immediate swearing-in.

Prime Minister Mottley emphasized that the inclusion of young people in the Senate is part of a broader effort to ensure national continuity and prepare the next generation for leadership roles. She noted that the government aims to involve youth in national matters and indicated that further changes to the Senate composition may occur in the coming months.