The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday that it will be hosting a series of candidate forums, culminating with a debate between party leaders, in the run-up to April’s general election.
The first forum will be held on 13 March.
“Throughout March and April, these forums will allow voters to hear directly from candidates on the same platform vying for public office in their respective constituencies,” a press release from the chamber said.
It noted that the chamber has been facilitating election forums since 1988.
“This year, an additional debate-style forum will be introduced for political groups and party leaders, enhancing the opportunity for voters to compare policy positions, leadership visions, and national priorities in an interactive setting,” the release stated.
The forums, each of which will begin at 7pm, will be hosted at the chamber’s conference room in Governors Square and will be livestreamed across social media platforms.
The forums will take place on the following dates:
• Thursday, 13 March – East End
• Friday, 14 March – North Side
• Monday, 17 March – Prospect
• Tuesday, 18 March – Savannah
• Wednesday, 19 March – Newlands
• Thursday, 20 March – Red Bay
• Friday, 21 March – Bodden Town East
• Monday, 24 March – Bodden Town West
• Tuesday, 25 March – Cayman Brac East
• Wednesday, 26 March – Cayman Brac West and Little Cayman
• Thursday, 27 March – West Bay Central
• Friday, 28 March – West Bay North
• Monday, 31 March – West Bay West
• Tuesday, 1 April – West Bay South
• Wednesday, 2 April – George Town North
• Thursday, 3 April – George Town Central
• Friday, 4 April – George Town South
• Monday, 7 April – George Town West
• Tuesday, 8 April – George Town East
• Wednesday, 9 April – Party leader debate
“Each forum will allow candidates to present their platforms, respond to moderated
questions, and engage with constituents on key local and national issues,” the chamber stated.
“The newly introduced debate-style forum for party leaders will provide a dynamic setting for discussing critical national policies and governance priorities.”
The format for the 9 April debate will be announced by the end of February.
The chamber noted that, with 19 constituencies represented, the forums will cover a wide range of issues, including the chamber’s own three advocacy pillars: building a future-ready workforce, sustaining economic success, and enhancing the quality of life.
It said that additional topics will address economic development, education, healthcare, infrastructure and governance.
“An informed electorate is essential to a thriving democracy,” said Joanne Lawson,
president of the Chamber of Commerce.
“Attending these forums will provide voters firsthand insights into candidates’ policy positions, priorities, and leadership styles.
“By introducing a debate format for party leaders, voters will have a unique opportunity to
compare perspectives on national issues in a way that has never been done before. This platform will also highlight the importance of visionary leadership – offering a clear direction for the country’s future and demonstrating each leader’s ability to navigate
complex challenges with foresight and purpose.”
Cayman is set to go to the polls on 30 April.
How to participate
Voters, businesses and community members can submit questions on constituency and national topics.
“Candidates interested in participating are urged to confirm their attendance and prepare for an engaging exchange of ideas,” the release noted.
For more information, to submit questions or for candidates to confirm attendance, email Chamber of Commerce CEO Wil Pineau at [email protected].
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