Government

The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory with Queen Elizabeth as its Head of State. A governor is sent, usually from the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office, to represent the reigning monarch’s interests. Martyn Keith Roper (53) is the current governor, having been sworn in to office on October 29th, 2018.

General elections occur every 4 years except in exceptional circumstances; such an exception occurred after Hurricane Ivan. With the islands suffering major damage and with public services badly disrupted the general elections were postponed for six months. Instead of being held in November of 2004, they were not held until May 11, 2005. Subsequent elections were held on May 20, 2009 and May 22, 2013 and the most recent election was held on May 24, 2017.

The Cayman Islands Legislature consists of 19 elected members and 2 official members. The various districts elect representatives as follows:

• George Town – 7 members
• West Bay – 4 members
• Bodden Town – 4 members
• North Side – 1 member
• East End – 1 member
• Cayman Brac & Little Cayman – 2 members

The Cabinet is composed of the Premier, six other Ministers and two non-voting ex-officio members. The Cabinet is constitutionally responsible for the formulation of policy, including directing the implementation of such policy, as it relates to every aspect of government, with the exception of the Governor’s special responsibilities.