The following is a statement from MLA Alva Suckoo

I have tendered my letter of resignation from the Peoples Progressive Movement (PPM) to the General Secretary of the party.

I have not arrived at this decision easily and I have taken the necessary time to consider how the events of the past weeks have impacted the Cayman Islands and our people, and what is expected of me as a chosen representative.

My use of the word “chosen”, should not be taken lightly. I know that my appointment to public office was decided by God, the people of Bodden Town in particular and the people of the Cayman Islands. I have sworn to protect and uphold a constitution which is enshrined in Christianity and I believe that I am obligated to God and man to demonstrate this commitment as a matter of principle.

My concerns run much deeper than a simple debate about same-sex marriage. The very foundations upon which we built our country are now under attack and I firmly believe that we, the peoples representatives, must now make a stand to protect those values, cultural beliefs and Christian principles that have served these Islands for so long. Failure to do so will inevitably lead us down a path from where there is no return.

There is no doubt that the Church has played a significant role in the social and cultural development of the Cayman Islands, and the days when the majority of our social and cultural interactions were organized by the Church are still recent memory for many including myself. I therefore cannot, as a matter of principle, follow a course of action that seeks to further diminish the importance of our Christian heritage and further deteriorate our social development.

This is a difficult decision for me, but I know that I can continue to effectively and successfully represent my people as an Independent member of the Legislative Assembly.

I remain fully committed to our people, and in particular to my constituents in Bodden Town and I will continue to support any Government initiatives that will benefit these islands.

I still have much to offer my country and will strive to offer a higher level of representation as an Independent member of the Legislative Assembly. I do feel however, that resigning from the Progressives at this time, is the most honourable course of action and most appropriate option available to me.

I pray that my colleagues in the PPM led Coalition will continue to work together in the best interests of our people and I wish them every success. May God continue to bless the Cayman Islands.