Radio Message for Constitution Day

The Hon. McKeeva Bush, OBE, JP,
Leader of Government Business & Premier Designate
6 July 2009

Today is Constitution Day – and we have a lot to celebrate: This year we commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Cayman’s first written Constitution; AND we celebrate our new, modernised Constitution. One that we, the people, approved in May in our first-ever referendum vote, signaling stronger internal self-government, and including for the first time, a Bill of Rights for the people.

This is a proud moment for us - our democratic heritage goes back 177 years. And what a fascinating and great journey it has been! What a long way we have travelled!

The Cayman Islands Constitution is indeed testimony to the vibrancy and dynamism of our people, and we should be truly proud of our rich history, especially our constitutional heritage, because it underscores the importance we place on the rule of law and self- determination as an Overseas Territory of the UK.

Let us pray to God that He continues to bless us and grant us sufficient wisdom to always cherish and sustain our heritage.