On Wednesday, voters will put an end what has probably been the longest election campaign in the history of the Cayman Islands.
Officially, the campaigns started eight weeks ago on Nomination Day. But election hopefuls were declaring their candidacy back in the spring 2004, when everyone thought this election would be held last November.
During all of the campaigning, we got a little bit of everything we’re used to in elections. We saw mudslinging, accusations, dirty politics and promises, promises and more promises.
It has been said that the Cayman Islands lost its innocence in the past couple of decades, and certainly, people are more jaded in their outlooks than they used to be.
But whether voters are cynical to the election process or not, and whether they believe a single promise will be fulfilled by those elected, tomorrow is a day for the citizens of this country to stand and be counted.
Elections are the cornerstone of democracy, and even if one believes he or she is only voting for the lesser of two evils, at least they can choose the ones who would lead the country.
There are many places in the world that cannot say the same.
Voter turnout has been steadily declining over the past few elections, but by all accounts, voters will come out in higher numbers this year.
For many, this election is seen as crucial for Cayman’s future, and emotions are high as the country goes into Election Day.
With the stakes running as high as the emotions, Cayman faces more of a potential for problems on Wednesday than during previous elections.
Nothing could end this country’s innocence more resolutely than a heat-of-the-moment incident of politically-motivated violence.
We must remember that another key element of democracy is the right to hold different opinions than others in our society.
In the end, the candidates with the most popular support will prevail, and those who disagree must accept the will of the masses.
And just as we hope those running to accept defeat with dignity, we hope their supporters do the same.
Related Videos
