From immigration to infrastructure: 5 key issues for the next election

Under six months out from the general election, a handful of key issues are emerging as hot-button topics for the nascent political parties and teams. 

Here the Compass takes a brief look at five of the main themes emerging from our conversations with the likely contenders.

1. Immigration

Almost without fail, every candidate we spoke to referenced immigration reform as a key priority. With Caymanians now in the minority of the population, issues around national identity, culture and heritage are increasingly cropping up as points of tension.

The question for those vying for votes will be how to put together proportionate and achievable policies.

2. Population growth

Does Cayman have a carrying capacity? The islands’ official population is currently just shy of 90,000 – almost triple what it was at the turn of the century.

Intrinsically linked with immigration reform is the question of what size and shape the future of Cayman takes.

Many other issues, from environmental protection to housing and infrastructure, stem from the matter of population.

Expect the question of how to slow growth without damaging the economy to be a key point in the pre-election debates.

3. Major projects

With the cruise and cargo port and the landfill back on the table as possible infrastructure projects, the 2025 election feels like a do-over of the 2013 vote.

The cruise port – which will also be the subject of a referendum at the same time as the general election – is likely to be the one which divides the candidates.

The East-West Arterial – pitched by some as a solution to traffic problems – is also likely to be a talking point that could open up old divisions over the environment.

4. The cost of living

Concern about the cost of living is hardly a new issue for Cayman elections. But runaway inflation, stagnant wages and sharply rising rents over the past four years mean it is likely to be front and centre this time.

That theme feeds into many other issues – from low-cost housing development and rent control to the cargo port project and better jobs for Caymanians.

5. The ability to get things done

Former politician, author and president of the University College of the Cayman Islands, Roy Bodden argues that Cayman lacks parties that divide on ideological lines. The parties and groups are split on personality as much as political conflict.

Indeed, many of the candidates and groups that will run against each other are broadly aligned on the need to deal with the four other topics on this list, among others.

So their pitch to voters will have to focus on the ability to get things done. After four years of an independent coalition that has struggled to work towards collective national goals, the ability to turn ideas and objectives into meaningful policy is likely to be a critical selling point this time.