🏛️ UPM caucus in the Cayman Islands faces more public disagreements

Public disagreements and disunity among the United Progressive Movement (UPM) caucus and its inner circle in the Cayman Islands have resurfaced. The issues came to light when MPs and ministers aired their differences on a government-owned radio station. Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly voiced her opposition to a proposed fee hike on the Credit Union, while McKeeva Bush expressed his disapproval of a proposed cruise berthing referendum. The government appears divided on a range of issues, including proposed amendments to the National Conservation Act and the implementation of a recommended minimum wage. 📻

The Premier also publicly criticized her deputy, André Ebanks, over a proposal to introduce a $200,000 fee on the Credit Union, a proposal she claimed to be unaware of despite it being part of a proposed package of fees she outlined in her budget speech last year. The disunity within the UPM caucus and Cabinet is becoming increasingly apparent, especially with a general election expected as early as April. Bush, who formed and led the first political party in the Cayman Islands, the United Democratic Party, hinted at the disorganization within the UPM coalition, stating that members are going their own way. 🗳️

Bush also expressed his opposition to the referendum on a cruise port, calling it a waste of money. He argued that the funds could be better spent elsewhere. His sentiments were echoed by other caucus members who also disapproved of the fee on the Credit Union. The Premier, on the other hand, assured that she would not support the proposed fee increase for the Credit Union, marking a significant difference in policy positions among Cabinet members. 🚢