Release  from Richard Christian

April 4 2013

After receiving a letter of disqualification from the election office on March 28^th 2013 on my candidacy, I sought legal advice and although I feel I have a case and can make some reasonable arguments, I have been advised that the challenge would be both lengthy and costly. Being that I am not in a financial position to pursue with this challenge, I have no other option but to temporarily halt my political ambitions and withdraw my candidacy.

Although I do not agree with the decision of the election office, I respect it. I feel that the country needs clarification on what the intent is, for section 61 (2) (b) and 62 (1) (a) of the constitution. I appeal to our legislators and legal community to help resolve this question, as it affects many Caymanians who had to travel to the US in the 60’s and 70’s for work or medical reasons and had children there. Based on that history, I feel the intent of section 61 (2) (b) was to allow those born overseas to Caymanian parents the opportunity to run for election if they so desired. As an American citizen, it is not so much a privilege to have a valid US passport to travel there, but a requirement by US Federal Law.

Coming into this campaign, the whole country, as well as myself demanded more accountable politicians. That being said, I take full responsibility for this technical and complex oversight and the controversy that arose. I apologize to my supporters, my PNA colleagues and the country on a whole.

I have received an incredible amount of support and encouragement over the past few days, but more so of the hope that I gave by initially announcing my candidacy on March 22^nd 2013. I encourage all remaining candidates to attack the issues, not each other, to work together, not against and realize that a nation is watching them. Therefore they should be careful on the words they choose and their actions, both privately and publicly.

Asked whether he would give up his citizenship and run in 2017 “Giving up my American citizenship is not the question; I would have done it months ago if I had to and will do it if I need to. However, the question is, was that the intent of the constitution? I don’t think so. In regards to 2017, I wouldn’t rule it out; however I would first have to see where the country is at during that time and whether it’s Gods will.”

Asked on what he now plans to do “Thankfully I still have my job, I still have 2 wonderful children to raise and I still have a number of community commitments that I can still be impactful with. I will continue to serve and make the change I want to see.”