GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, CMC—A record 25,643 people are eligible to cast ballots in the general election here on Wednesday, and voters are also being called upon to vote in a referendum that will not be binding on the incoming administration.
Electoral officials in this British Overseas Territory say that by the time the polling stations open at 7.00 am (local time), more than 2,500 people will have already voted in postal or mobile ballots.
The elections, which will be observed by an election mission organized by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association British Islands and Mediterranean Region, follow a sequence of political maneuvering in the British Overseas Territory since the 2021 elections when independent candidates won 12 seats and the People’s Progressive Party (PPM) winning seven seats.
The PPM, under the leadership of Joey Hew, is contesting 13 seats, while the new Cayman Islands National Party (CINP), led by Dan Scott, is contesting 12, and The Caymanian Community Party (TCCP) of Andre Ebanks is fielding a team of 10 candidates. In addition, several independent candidates are vying for a seat in the parliament.
Under the island’s voting system, voters cast ballots for the 19 members of parliament, who are directly elected via plurality vote. The Attorney General, appointed by the Governor, and Deputy Governor, appointed by the British monarch, serve as additional ex officio members.
A statement from the Elections Office on the voter’s list stated that “the growing electorate reflects the continued commitment to civic participation, and the Elections Office is dedicated to ensuring every eligible voter is ready to have their say in the electoral process.”
Wesley Howell, supervisor of Elections, said, “We are thrilled to see such a remarkable increase in the number of registered electors. We are working hard to ensure that every eligible voter has the information and resources they need to cast their ballot confidently.
“We encourage voters to plan, be informed, and use the available voting options to ensure their voices are heard.”
The voters will also be asked to vote on three national questions: Should the Cayman Islands develop cruise berthing infrastructure? Should a national lottery be introduced in the Islands? Should the consumption and possession of small amounts of cannabis be decriminalized?
The Cayman Islands government said in a statement that while a general election is used to choose representatives, referendums give voters the opportunity to express their views directly on key issues.
“The upcoming referendum, initiated by the Cayman Islands Government, invites voters to share their views on three national topics and help shape future decisions. However, this referendum is non-binding, meaning the result will guide the government but will not automatically lead to a change in law or policy.
“A ‘yes’ vote does not approve any past proposals or existing plans. It simply signals that the public believes the issue is worth exploring further,” the statement added.
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