Both Cayman Marl Road and Loop Cayman have quoted Minster Hon. Jay Ebanks as stating that “Speaker of Parliament William McKeeva Bush has stepped down”.

It has been widely reported that a number of members of the governing  PACT government have indicated to Premier Panton they are not in support of Bush carrying on as Speaker of the House.

Premier Panton is at the Funeral of The Late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. However, It is extremely unlikely he is in the dark as to this developing story.

Lopp Cayman have quoted Bush as saying, “I have considered all my people, my constituency, colleagues and my family.  Enough of this is enough and the accusations aren’t going to stop as long as I hold a post in government. I know the PACT government is a government for the people and I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize the group in any negative light.”

UPDATE

Statement from Premier Wayne Panton on Resignation of Speaker

Grand Cayman – Saturday, 17 September 2022 

I have received several media inquiries concerning the statements made by the Speaker of the House, and as reported in Loop News yesterday evening. 

It is disappointing that some Members of Parliament cannot show restraint. 

Prior to departing for London on Thursday afternoon 15 September, I issued a strongly worded letter to the Speaker, suggesting that he resign on, or before, Friday, 23 September 2022. Whilst a formal written resignation has not been given, I can confirm that I received several messages from Mr. Bush on Friday morning, stating multiple times his intention to resign as Speaker.

It was my intent to wait until after the Official Period of National Mourning, and after Mr Bush had submitted his written resignation to the Clerk of Parliament, to issue any further statement on this matter. 

As we conclude the final days of the Official Period of National Mourning, I encourage all residents to show respect and exercise restraint.

Now more than ever, let us honour the legacy of Her Late Majesty and be guided by her example of leadership, public service, humility, dignity and grace.