On 12 October 2021, incumbent Governor-General of Barbados Dame Sandra Mason was jointly nominated by the prime minister and leader of the opposition as candidate for the first president of Barbados,[32] and was subsequently elected on 20 October.[33] Mason took office on 30 November 2021 in a ceremony also attended by Charles, Prince of Wales.[3][34] Queen Elizabeth II sent a message of congratulations to President Mason, saying "As you celebrate this momentous day, I send you and all Barbadians my warmest good wishes for your happiness, peace and prosperity in the future."[35]