We are pleased to report this message from the Cayman Islands Government Representative in the UK, Mr Eric Bush JP, regarding the recent elections.
I write to provide you with an update on the results of our general elections which was held last Wednesday, 24 May 2017. The elections resulted in no clear party majority with seven members from the People’s Progressive Movement Party, three from the Cayman Democratic Party and nine Independents being elected.
The 2017 – 2021 Members of our Legislative Assembly are:
People’s Progressive Movement
Hon. Alden McLaughlin, MBE, JP
Barbara Connolly
David White
Joey Hew
Hon. Julianna O’Conner, JP
Moses Kirkconnell, JP
Roy McTaggart
Kenneth Bryan
Tara Rivers, JP
Cayman Democratic
Bernie Bush
Captain Eugene Ebanks,JP
Hon. McKeeva Bush, OBE JP
Party Independents
Alva Suckoo
Anthony Eden, OBE
Arden McLean
Austin Harris
Chris Saunders
Dwayne Seymour
Ezzard Miller
As there was no single majority, a coalition government has been announced and is expected to be sworn in by Her Excellency the Governor tomorrow, Wednesday, 31st May 2017.
After much debate and continued discussions over the weekend, it has been announced that the Progressives, led by Hon. Alden McLaughlin, MBE JP will seek to form a government with the Hon. McKeeva Bush, OBE JP and the other Cayman Democratic Party members along with three Independents, namely Tara Rivers, JP, Austin Harris and Dwayne Seymour.
Whilst there has been much conversation and public debate over the past five days to get to this result, I am very happy to report that during this time of uncertainty, there were no reports of violence, civil unrest or any reduction in service by our public or private sectors. This no doubt speaks to the strength in our country’s values and resilience. It is also evidence of a strong democratic society in which the right of free speech is respected and honoured.
I hope you will join me in congratulating all Members in their election to our Legislative Assembly and wish the elected Government of the Cayman Islands all the very best during their administration.
Eric Bush, JP, Representative, Cayman Islands Government