General election, referendum set for tomorrow

GEORGE TOWN (CMC):

The Cayman Islands government says the referendum to be held on Wednesday, the same day voters cast their ballots for a new government, will not be binding on the incoming administration.

Caymanians will have the opportunity to weigh in on three national questions, namely: Should the Cayman Islands develop cruise-berthing infrastructure? Do they support the introduction of a national lottery in the islands? Do they support the decriminalisation of the consumption and possession of small amounts of cannabis?

In a statement, The Cayman Islands government said 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.

NON-BINDING

It said that “this particular referendum is non-binding because it was initiated by the government, rather than through a people-led petition process under the constitution”.

According to The Cayman Islands Constitution Order 2009, a referendum triggered by a petition of at least 25 per cent of registered voters is legally binding. In contrast, when a referendum is called by the government, it does not carry the same legal requirement to act on the results.

The government defended the decision to hold the referendum at the same time of the general election, saying that “this referendum is being held in response to ongoing public interest and discussion around the three issues.

“The government recognises that these matters have gained national attention and that many people have strong views. Rather than making a unilateral decision, the government chose to hold a referendum, offering a transparent and structured way for voters to share their views directly.”