Only hours after his Democratic Labour Party (DLP) swept the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) out of office in Tuesday's general election, 46-year-old David Thompson was Wednesday afternoon sworn in as the country's sixth Prime Minister. The ceremony took place at Government house before Governor General, Sir Clifford Husbands. Tuesday, the Democratic Labour Party ended 14 years in the political wilderness when it scored a decisive electoral victory over the Owen Arthur-led Barbados Labour Party which was seeking an unprecedented fourth term in office. With a recount underway in at least one constituency Wednesday, the DLP has secured 20 seats in the 30-seat House of Assembly, with the BLP winning nine. The Prime Minister called for unity after what observers say was an unusually bitter campaign. Prime Minister Thompson has declared Friday a national holiday to celebrate the victory of the Democratic Labour Party. And three regional leaders congratulated Barbados Prime Minister-elect, David Thompson on his party's victory in Tuesday general election. They have also praised former Prime Minister Owen Arthur for his contribution to the region. The Prime Ministers of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Dominica all congratulated Mr. Thompson and welcomed him to the councils of the Caribbean Community. They also praised Owen Arthur, who led the CARICOM Single Market and Economy effort over the last 15 years and said he will be missed at the regional level where he was a titian in the regional integration process. Meanwhile, in conceding defeat former Prime Minister Owen Arthur says he has accepted the verdict of the people. He says while he believes the BLP won a good campaign, the desire for change was a main factor in the election. The former Prime Minister said while he may have made up his mind about his political future, he will discuss it with the party and make an announcement when the time is right. Reprinted from radioja.com