Saint Lucia's National Green Party (NGP) has challenged other Caribbean countries to follow Barbados, which has become the world's newest republic. In doing so, Barbados ditched Queen Elizabeth as Head of State and installed a local, Dame Sandra Mason, as its first President. Describing the Barbados move as bold and mature, NGP Deputy leader Aaron Alexander said in a statement on Wednesday on behalf of the party that it rejoices with the government and people of Barbados. 'We challenge the other countries of the Caribbean to move hastily in a similar direction. It can be done, it is very possible.