Opposition Moves to Protect Historic District Representation in the Cayman Islands Parliament

Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Kenneth Bryan, has filed a formal motion seeking a constitutional amendment to guarantee that Grand Cayman’s traditional districts retain individual representation in Parliament. The motion, seconded by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joey Hew, calls for the establishment of a “representational floor,” similar to the constitutional protections already in place for the Sister Islands. Under the proposal, the districts of West Bay, George Town, Bodden Town, North Side, and East End would each be guaranteed at least one parliamentary representative. This would ensure that future population shifts do not result in the amalgamation or loss of historic constituencies. This action follows the findings of the 2023 Electoral Boundary Commission (EBC) Report, which highlighted the risk that strict population-based ratios could, over time, force smaller historic districts such as East End and North Side to be merged with larger neighbouring areas. “Our Constitution must reflect the heart of our communities, not just a spreadsheet of numbers,” said Deputy Leader Bryan. “By securing this amendment now, we can protect the unique cultural and historical identity of our traditional districts for generations to come.” The motion seeks to follow the precedent established in 2019 for ‘minor or uncontroversial’ constitutional amendments. With bipartisan support, the Opposition aims to fast-track the request to the UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, allowing the change to take effect ahead of the next electoral cycle. Statement from the Leader of the Opposition Hon. Joey Hew, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the People’s Progressive Movement (PPM), stated: “This motion is about national stability and preserving the voice of our people. As the seconder of this motion, I believe it is vital that we provide the same level of constitutional security to Grand Cayman’s historic districts as we do for the Sister Islands. This represents a minor change with a major impact on protecting our democratic heritage. We look forward to the Premier joining us in sending a unified signal to the UK Minister for the Overseas Territories.”