MPs reveal frustrations over UPM’s internal conflicts
(CNS): Former ministers André Ebanks, Katherine Ebanks-Wilks and Sabrina Turner and former Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden, who all resigned from the UPM last month citing serious mismanagement of Caucus and Cabinet, held a public meeting Wednesday where they revealed more about what drove them out of the party.
The reasons included MPs’ drunkenness in caucus and closed-door dealings with Dart by a ‘government within a government’, but many of the conflicts they revealed related to the environment. Ebanks accused the UPM of trying to change the National Conservation Act to “promote unfettered development”.
The four MPs held their first public meeting since their dramatic resignations in a packed Seafarers Hall in Prospect, where they detailed a catalogue of poor management on the part of the premier, an element of duplicity, especially relating to the climate minister’s portfolio, and an apparent abandonment of the search for consensus over important policy decisions.
“The executive was malfunctioning,” Ebanks told the audience as he spoke in detail about the poor decision-making over the last year.
Former climate and sustainability minister Ebanks-Wilks revealed how the premier and the current labour minister had effectively hijacked the processes in relation to amendments to the NCA and the ReGen contract. They held meetings with Dart, from which she was deliberately excluded and not told about.
The four MPs said they were willing to say more at this stage because an election has been called, and the government stabilised but, as a minority, it has been curbed. They were therefore freed from the shackles of collective responsibility and able to speak out.
Ebanks-Wilks said the country deserved leaders who had the public’s interests at heart and not ones making decisions based purely on what they think will get them re-elected or benefit them.
“I have no regrets,” she said as she explained how their resignation has at least prevented the UPM from introducing any more contentious legislation, such as the amendments to the National Conservation Act.
The group spoke about how they had fought to get the referendum moved to the same day as the election and to include more questions to try to save some money.
Ebanks said they believed the cruise question itself would not solve the issues surrounding the future development of cruise berthing since it was really the where, what and how much that needed to be addressed, not the idea of enhancing the facilities.
They had argued over the escalating cost of the Brac school, how cabinet papers were dealt with, and the exclusion of some ministers from discussions, fueling further division and disunity on policy as well as principles. Ebanks said that even on a good day, it had become very difficult to have a clear and objective discussion in caucus.
The former ministers also took some time to explain the problem of a Cabinet that is dependent on collective responsibility to function when the members of the inner government circle were at odds over significant policy positions and the principles of good governance.
They said that they had clung on and accepted the majority’s decisions on many occasions because of their concerns about the instability that would follow if they brought down a government and forced early elections.
However, Ebanks pointed out that during the no-confidence vote relating to Wayne Panton, he had warned of his likely resignation if things did not improve and implied that the problems in Cabinet were not just about Panton, nor were they sudden. “I had already given notice,” he said.
However, it was clear that many of the contentious issues that remained after his departure were within Panton’s former sustainability and climate resiliency ministry. As a result, Ebanks-Wilks was at the centre of what they described as the duplicitous behaviour of the premier and the labour minister when, without informing her, they held meetings with Dart about renegotiating the ReGen project rather than terminating it.
The team all agreed that this was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Ebanks explained that they had hung on for so long because they were well aware of the risk to the country’s reputation that thier leaving could pose. But the accumulation of events, especially the discovery of the side dealings outside of the Cabinet’s existing mandate involving senior civil servants from unrelated ministries, made it clear that “Cabinet and Caucus had run amok”.
“Someone had to pull the emergency brake,” he said about how the government was functioning.
Ebanks said the political system is broken but is not beyond saving. He said there was a way to find a “more perfect union”, and invited anyone interested in transformative change to contact them and get involved in creating a new type of united leadership.
See the meeting in full below on Cayman Life TV:
- Fascinated
- Happy
- Sad
- Angry
- Bored
- Afraid
Category: Politics
The fact that CMR is promoting these deserters tells me one thing. This is another Panton inspired disaster. He is clearly pulling the strings and using his money again. Time
To retire Wayne!
Agreed.
Add to ths the fact that Turner ran to CMR- talk about desperation
wow, you should have your own political analysis show.
But I wonder who would be stupid enough to broadcast it.
And now we have a whole new problem: the formation of a “Shadow Government” how idiocratic and low can this possibly become ?
Not that our presently elected representatives haven’t lost touch with the country and reality , the apposition which is cut from the same cloth (read Mc Keeva Bush’s school of skullduggery) .
And the carnival continues in full swing until the floating barges hit the iron shore , the coffers are emptied and future generations confronted with a future that would make Warhammer 40 k look like a utopia !
Reference here : https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warhammer_40,000
Looks like KB will soon be premier, he has a safe seat because the GTC voters think he is some kind of God. The no doubt he will pass a law that all households must display his picture.
It’s time for change. We need national candidates and better incentives for good Caymanians to run. Sign the petition.
https://www.change.org/p/people-initiated-referendum-on-electoral-reform-in-the-cayman-islands
No to #3
Stop smoking manure wrapped in plantain trash!!
This all reeks of a power grab or some black hand behind them moving them in this direction. Reason for saying this is:
1. If the issue is McKeeva Bush, these 4 formed two Governments with him since the 2021 election.
2. If the new Cayman Brac High School budget these 4 voted for circa $56 million for the project in December 2023 for the 2024/2025 budget – making them well aware of the budget for the school.
3. If its the NCA amendments there is a common procedure to ask the leader for a conscience vote. This is done by writing to the leader, in this case the Premier. The leader would then take one of the following actions: grant the request, ask the requestor(s) to resign their post in the Government, or relieve the requestor(s) of their responsibilities in the Government.
4. If its Ministerial interference, unfortunately this is common practice for years in the Cayman Islands where MPs that have relationships with certain individuals and/or entities discuss matters with those entities that they seek to resolve. Something all 4 of these MPs have also surely engaged in.
So again it reeks of something more, and it’s strange they are now advocating for organised politics but still holding themselves out to be 4 independents running together. If they get re-elected will they then join the PPM or another group?
They at least had the courage to admit their mistakes and face ridicule in the interests of putting a stop to UDPm doing further damage.
Better late than allowing the public to be kept in the dark until April.
• Fundamental political reform is necessary to prevent the emergence of a stagnant and self-serving political class. Promoting transparency, strengthening anti-corruption measures, and fostering public trust are essential steps to improve the political climate and encourage participation from capable individuals who are currently deterred by the unpalatable reality of inefficiency, misconduct and corruption.
• To promote integrity in politics, campaign finance laws should be strengthened to ensure transparency and prevent undue influence. Banning external income for elected officials could reduce conflicts of interest and encourage dedication to public service. As Charlie Munger aptly stated, “Show me the incentives, and I’ll show you the outcome.” By aligning incentives to attract competent and ethical individuals to political office, the Cayman Islands can foster better governance and positive societal outcomes.
• Enhancing external oversight of governmental decisions through independent bodies, such as a local version of the Congressional Research Service, Office for Budgetary Responsibility and/or an empowered Anti-Corruption Commission, could increase accountability and public confidence in the political and economic planning process (e.g. the hidden $billions of off-balance sheet public sector pension and health liabilities). Collaborating with international partners for capacity building and adopting best practices from nations known for their transparency and efficiency — such as Singapore and Estonia — could further modernise governance structures.
• Implementing electoral reform to adjust constituency sizes – or even remove constituencies – could ensure more effective representation. Introducing a recall system could provide a mechanism for holding elected officials accountable for their actions between elections. Establishing stringent qualification requirements for political candidates — such as educational credentials, professional experience, and a clean legal record — would help ensure that those standing for office possess the necessary skills and commitment to serve effectively.
• Investing in education by introducing civic curricula and mentorship programs can prepare future leaders and foster a sense of public duty from a young age. This educational foundation could inspire young Caymanians to contribute positively to the territory’s development.
• Addressing economic and social factors is also crucial. Diversifying the economy and improving the quality of life could make long-term residency more appealing for young Caymanians who currently seek opportunities abroad. Establishing vocational training schools would enable young Caymanians to acquire skills for vital jobs such as electricians, plumbers, and air conditioning engineers, contributing to both personal career prospects and the local economy. Revising work permit policies to reduce the influx of low-skill labour could help mitigate challenges associated with effectively importing the third world, for the sake of (a) work permit fees to fund electoral bribes; and (b) selling out Cayman to developers.
• Singapore serves as a notable example of successful governance transformation, largely attributed to visionary leadership and strategic planning. While the Cayman Islands cannot replicate this model, lacking similar potential leaders, drawing lessons from Singapore’s emphasis on meritocracy, anti-corruption measures, and long-term planning could be beneficial.
• To enhance governance and encourage qualified individuals to enter politics, the Cayman Islands (or, more realistically, the FCO, as current politicians have no interest in losing their monopoly on power) might consider comprehensive reforms aimed at broadening the pool of desirable candidates. Reforming eligibility criteria to include diaspora Caymanians and those with dual citizenship — many of whom are currently excluded due to technicalities related to birthplace — could enrich the political landscape with experienced and globally experienced individuals. Additionally, selectively considering the inclusion of suitably qualified Permanent Residents and Status Holders (perhaps limiting them to a single term, to force in fresh talent) could bring badly-need qualification, expertise and perspectives to the political arena, further strengthening governance.
• Collectively, these strategies aim to create an environment where capable individuals are motivated to contribute to politics, leading to improved governance and a prosperous future for the Cayman Islands. By focusing on incentivising the right sort of politicians, excluding the wrong sort, accountability, education, and institutional strength, the Cayman Islands could work towards a political system that reflects the aspirations and potential of its people.
This is a great post. But none of this will happen in Cayman. It’s pretty much the “good ‘ole boys club” that runs our country.
lie down with dogs, get up with fleas.
forever tainted.
Would you prefer that they said nothing? At least the people know what is going on now.
4 rats who left a sinking ship…all to try and save face with the electorate.
your failures over the last 4 years will not be forgotten.
This was just election campaigning
Who cares? Even if it was, this is the type of campaigning that the public needs so that they can better understand the inner-workings of the borderline-treasonous crew that are currently occupying our parliament.
They were so defensive and didn’t want to listen to people with different views
Whether one wants to believe or accept it, this fiasco and piss poor government falls squarely on the feet of Wayne Panton. Had he not been so power hungry, he could of and should have formed an alliance with the PPM to have educated and experienced MPs form the Government in 2021. Having said this, I by no means am inferring that the PPM is the best, but they were and are alot damn better than what we have now. As I see it, Panton is irrelevant now and was then.
The only fix to this F-up we have is to have a National Vote or revert to the days of electoral districts. We are doomed if this 1 man, 1 vote continues.
Let’s not forget that the Minister for Planning Jay Ebanks decided he is now an expert in environmental matters and hired a lawyer to craft a bill that would have seen dramatic changes of the NCC and put in an express lane for development.
Let’s also not forget his department was responsible for building the mental health facility that is over budget and can’t pass his own planning requirements.
Don’t forget too that we haven’t been supplied with financial reporting from his ministries as the OAG can’t complete their fieldwork?
While the motives of the 4 departing are genuine, there are ulterior motives at play to form with another group. If this other group then covertly supports some of those same existing cabinets ministers just to get numbers for power then this country would be no better off.
Who is the Chief Officer behind all these issues? We are giving the good Minister alot of credit.
Andre in his thirst for power decided to join a bunch of independents with zero skills in leadership and success. Now he is complaining about conflicts. He got what he deserved. Andre you are not Premier material…. You have the technical knowledge but you lack the leadership skills and political awareness to run a Government. Also be careful who you take advice from. Clearly you are getting horrible advice.
Next question! Says a lot.
Kathy is clearly out of her league and should return to the private sector with Sabrina.
Heather well …. Do I need to say it.
To Anonymous 10:42am: Maybe you are too used to politricksters and back-room dealers to value or recognize the makings of a statesman…
11:24. unfortunately I didn’t vote for someone who was ” making a statesman” I voted for who i believed was a statesman. However I was tricked. But no again Bo BO.
I wonder if all those so called men of good character who are not complaining of the remaining Government but who was appointed to Boards by the same Ministers who remain will show us true character and resign. Unfortunately it’s a facade and they will remain on the boards.
Surprised they still have supporters
I encourage honest civil servants to stop being accomplices to incompetent/crooked Ministers or Chief Officers. Unless you blow the lid wide open on the sewage, the country will continue to rot and we will continue to lose millions. Do not enable these people! Do not cover for their ineptitude. You need to be loyal to the country, not to them. It is us voters who pay your salary, not the Ministers. They work for the voters, same as you.
I agree…. but it won’t work with this cabinet! And unfortunately Civil Servants have families to feed.
We urgently need quality candidates to vote for, and voters who take their time to really evaluate candidates. We need professionals who research, compare, exchange ideas and take our input into consideration. People like Juliana, Seymour, McTaggart, M. Bush, E. Bush, H. Bodden, Mr. Bryan, need to go. Some are too meek, others think it is all about putting on a show, others do not have the cojones to make the tough decisions and yet others use religion to manipulate the old and feeble.
One Man/One Vote with a NATIONAL vote!
To Change 9:38am: Do not forget Jay Ebanks. I hope North Siders get a much better slew of candidates to vote for this time around. Seriously.
Don’t forget B. Bush
Who??
I agree, but they will get Mr. Pompous Justin again SMH
I couldn’t agree more! Let’s make it happen people!
Sign/like/share this petition.
https://www.change.org/p/people-initiated-referendum-on-electoral-reform-in-the-cayman-islands
Boy I would like to have been a fly on the wall when Seymour and O’Connor-Connolly were negotiating with Dart. The Dart vultures must have tore those two geniuses a new as$hole laughing the whole time. What the hell it is all about feathering their nest for their big fat behinds anyway and to hell with the people of the Cayman Islands. They both should be sent to jail.
Resignations… unfettered development… MP’s drunkenness… enough of the foolishness I tell you!
I be behooved the time has come to be unburdened from what has been hope and change. Adult needs to step into the room amongst mere mortals a man with the wisdom dedication foreskin courage under fire like iron sharpens iron the call must be made for Dwayne the Rock Seymour to rise up take the torch be king Simba lead out of this take the wheel Tanks Rock thanks a lot
To Lafonda 8:53am: I know you are being sarcastic. Otherwise, whichever bush you smoking, must be horse dung.
Can we say “hypocrite” (hɪpəkrɪt)?