📜 UPM unveils strategic priorities for 2026

The United People’s Movement (UPM) Government of the Cayman Islands has published a policy document outlining its strategic priorities up to 2026. The document, which aligns with the budget and strategic policy statement delivered by Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly in 2024, represents the government's focus in its final year before the 2025 elections. However, the UPM is a coalition of independent members, and consensus on key issues such as over-development and minimum wage remains elusive. 📚

The published priorities are broad and ambiguous, failing to indicate specific actions or legislative amendments that would address key challenges such as the cost of living, immigration, development, and access to affordable homes and healthcare. The document emphasizes a people-centric approach, focusing on improving the quality of life for all residents. This includes nation-building projects, sustainability discussions, and socio-economic policies impacting various aspects of life. It also highlights the need to protect and promote Caymanian culture, heritage, and identity. 🏝️

Despite these outlined priorities, it is unlikely that the current administration will be able to effect significant change in relation to these goals due to deep-seated and systemic problems caused by historic policies. Disagreements within the caucus and Cabinet, conflicting policies, and a dependence on work permit fees further complicate the situation. The government is asking the general public to read the document and provide feedback. 📩