McLean resigns from PPM
(CNS): Arden McLean has confirmed his resignation from the PPM and his intention to serve the people of East End as an independent member, formalising the increasingly independent position he has often followed informally. McLean was first elected to his seat in 2000 and was a founding member of the People’s Progressive Movement. However, in recent months it has become clear that McLean is taking an increasingly different and more vocal position in the opposition camp than McLaughlin. "I remain fully committed to the political future of the Cayman Islands and in particular the welfare of my constituents in East End," he said in a statement Friday morning.
"I believe that I still have much to offer my country and will endeavour to continue to contribute in a positive way as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for as long as the people of East End are willing to give me the privilege of serving them."
McLean has teamed up more frequently this year with North Side MLA Ezzard Miller, the only other representative of a single member constituency, as the men became progressively united in their position against the government and on policies affecting the Cayman Islands.
PPM leader Alden McLaughlin said the decision was no surprise. “This is something Arden has been wrestling with for some time,” McLaughlin said. “He has decided that his political fortunes lay outside the party but we have parted on very friendly terms and will continue to work together.”
McLaughlin said he expected that both McLean and Miller will form part of the next government alongside the PPM after the upcoming general elections.
Having partnered with Miller in the OMOV campaign leaving his party leader unsure about his role in the goal to achieve a referendum before the election, McLean has also been far more vocal in his opposition to government's ForCayman Investment Alliance deal with Dart than the PPM leader.
McLean is still expected to run in East End, where he received more than 60% of the vote at the last election, but will be doing so as an independent candidate, a move which may encourage others to think that the decline of the independent member, as touted by both political parties, was exaggerated.
His resignation will come as a serious blow to the PPM camp as McLean is seen by many in the party as one of the most outspoken and popular members of the party hierarchy.
See McLean's full statement below.
Category: Politics
This shows that the members of the PPM are alive and thinking unlike the zZOMBIES who seem to make up the UDP.Wouldn't it be great for people like Mark and Mike to resign from the UDP in an effort to better represent their constituents?
Well said. Mike is a very popular candidate but will only go down with the wrong people. My first and probally only vote is for you Bo Bo Mike.
Alas, the time for the doomed duo from BT, and others, including the kids from WB, to detach themselves from the UDP has passed, I fear. XXXXX
Alden it looks like you are out there alone. Best thing to do is to dismantle the party and go on your own ways. because ppm time is over !!!! wonder what the brothers has to say about this. Wright
I can assure all that Arden will NEVER support UDP so you can all put that to rest and I speak that from being in the know.
Please don't be quick to condemn Mr. McLaughlin, just because he is not as vocal as Arden and Ezzard. I have heard Mr. McLaughlin debating in the House, I have listened carefully to him on radio, I have read his reports and his carefully spoken words and find him to be a very Intelligent, careful, observant and respectable Statesman. Don't judge him for his humble characteristics. Mr. McLaughlin is a careful thinking and responsible man. There are many UDP haters out there of Mr. McLaughlin, ask yourself Why? Why do they hate Mr. McLaughlin, because he is the most feared. He may not be quick with the mouth, but he is quick with the pen. I think he has greatleadership skills and its great that he has embarked on taking on and teaching a new group of educated young men in his party. Arden may not had liked that idea, as he could not be in control, so he made his choice. Mr. Mclaughlin I applaud you for what you are doing and leading the new educated young Caymanians forward. Don't let the haters pull you down, nor the PPM party, teach our young men and women, all that you have learnt and I Pray your success with this, as you move our young people onwards to be great leaders. Teach them Statesmanship, teach them that Country comes first, teach them to do it by the constitution and teach them right. Thank you Mr. McLaughlin for what you have done and what you will do with these young men. Arden, best of luck with you and your decisionand you too have to remember, Country first and I do hope with your move towards the Independent way, you will be as one in the house when making decisions nationally. God Bless you all and most of all, May God Bless these Cayman Islands.
We only need 1 person for each district, the party system is dying finally! ONE MAN ONE VOTE & LET US VOTE FOR THE PRIMERE ALSO!
Yes, please, let us wote the eternally honerable premier out of government for all of eternity.
Anyone wanna give me my status?
18:55 what part of NO you do not understand.
McKeeva does, but I'll be damned if we're going to let him.
ALL COMMENTERS PLEASE TAKE NOTE.
Most of the comments posted about this story are all about party politics. This is the problem that political parties is causing. We get mired down in who's who instead of what's what. We are once again being diverted from discussing the important issues affecting all of us because of political parties. The formation of parties has proven to be good only for the parties. When discussions get heated over parties then you know they are taking up too much of the limelight in lieu of what we should be discussing. Get off the party crap and vote independent this time so we can get on with good governance as Caymanians and not as party members.
You may have opinions about Ezzard's and Alden's political beliefs but at the end of the day they are obliged to vote the way the people of their districts direct them. This is what being independent is all about, representing the wishes of the people not the party. Political parties prevent us from seeing the forest for the trees. They side track us and divide us as a country.
Be proud to be a Caymanian, not a party member. Next election, find someone to vote for whom you believe will represent your wishes in the LA and not the wishes of the party.
Careful with that theory. I voted for Mike Adam because I thought he was a good guy. Look how that turned out.
Mike Adam and other "Good Guys" are victims of party politics. If he were independent you would see a much different representative.
Going independent will not give him a pair of balls. He needs to have them in order to go independent. Trying to sell himself as an independent candidate AFTER he has offered unwavering support to a dictator hell bent on the destruction of this country is of little comfort.
I used to think so but now reject that comment!! I firmly believe that there is no longer a single good member of the UDP party or else that person would have stepped forward a long time ago to challenge the madness that isgoing on now.
They are either all XXXXX, spineless or oblivious – either way, they are no longer good for this country. To sit back and allow ONE man to do any and everything he wants. To say any and everything he wants. It is unconscionable.
A good guy protects the innocent and puts the bad guy away. He champions the right causes and expressly voices his disagreement with the wrong things.
When I attend meetings or watch them on tv I see a bunch of bad people sitting on a stage, paraded in front of the public like princes. They need not speak. Just sit there and look like they support the speaker. Like good little boys and girls. Except that the speaker is bad. Bad bad bad! So they are supporting bad. Which makes THEM bad.
I like Mike. He's a great guy. But he has disappointed me and many others who like him. No doubt if he were an independent we would see a different side. But what does that tell us?? That he is two-faced?! That he swings with whoever is yelling the loudest?! We need representation from men and women who know who they are and what they are doing up there in the ivory towers of government. Not yes men who cannot speak out against the injustices brought on by one man.
The UDP members are never chosen for who they are. They are hand-picked for who they can become under the right pressure. Never let it be said that there is anyone in the UDP who can speak longer, talk louder or earn more praise than dear Mac. They will be out of there before you can say 'qwe-hay'.
No my friend, there are not 'Good Guys' in the UDP, just "Good Fellas"…!!!!!
He IS a good guy. With a cronic shortage of balls and in the wrong company. Too bad.
Wha a mess!
This move says a lot about the state of the ppm. The Action Man did what he had to do in the best interests for himself and East End. What have the ppm done to help him retain his seat for 2013? Arden seemed to be the only member interested in acting like the opposition.
Alden better take a long look in the mirror and realize that if he can’t keep his party together and its best people involved to help ppm there is very little chance he can ever be trusted to run the government in 2013.
Never a dull day inpolitics.
Probably because the strictures of party conformance does not suit people who are always shooting from the hip.
Probably because the strictures of party conformance don't work so well when there is a lack of leadership.
In the 2005 and 2009 campaigns the PPM would always open and close their rallies with their two most powerful speakers, Arden and Chuckie. With these two men gone from the PPM who will excite the party base now ????
McKeeva must be stopped so Arden and Chuckie you guys need to offer up an alternative solution very soon.
A politial soap opera with an Independent third party composed of old PPM and UDP. Cayman needs truly independent members with independent thinkers, not a rehash of old logic that leads to a deceptive glacier pace of progress where their real interests are self serving and vain ideas to protect the current under-the-table cash flows. Do we need more secretive and carrear politicians, or an open and transparent 4th party untied to the web of payouts.
Cant you see it is clear cut, an Independant party composed of good and powerful people is springing up. We heard some very good names called, Mrs Coe, Mr Bothwell Mr Mike Mr Garth, Mr Moxam Mrs Laurice Frazier
Mr Mark handsome Mr Scott Capt Mose Mr Ezzard and Arden. Havent heard the others but so far so good. WINNERS!!!!!!
Until they can present detailed plans with a cost/benefit analysis, they are just a bunch buddies that have banded together and most likely feed off each others praise hoping that that fallacious momentum will somehow transpire into good ideas. Seen it happen a million times. Lets see the DETAILED plans first, then you can all call yourselfs at least designers, if the solutions work, then winners.
Handsome doesn't necessarily make a good government. Too bad McKeeva isn't proof of that.
What's an independent party?
The UDP should make Alden an honorary member, after all he is Mac's best asset
Arden trying to distance himself from the ppm who bankrupted cayman…. Smart move!
U better hope there is no audit of ur road jobs……
Ps. I’no udp…..who are the worst of the worst….
Sounds like you are to me.
Sigh.
We need TERM LIMITS for all officeholders.
Out with the old and in with the new.
At least there is a term limit for Premiers….only two successive terms under 2009 Constitution….maybe one would have been better?
In this instance one was too many!
Alden McLaughlin may try to down-play this development, but it is a serious blow to the PPM! People recognise fluff when they read it Mr. McLaughlin: your words are not believed. Arden left the PPM for two very simple reasons: he could not get the Leadership spot in the PPM and Alden did not want to make him Deputy Leader. Arden feels he'll be better-off leaving the PPM because Ezzard will make him Deputy Premier in a new Government. In all likelihood, the next Government will be a coalition Government but it will take a lot of bargaining to achieve this once the 18 MLAs are elected to the House. The public should know that despite all the words spoken by would-be politicians, none have a concrete plan to fix the Islands' problems.
McKeeva's plan: ruling by fear and intimidation.
Alden's plan: stating that there is a need for a plan but he can't give any specifics of what he would put in the plan!
Ezzard's plan: lay-off Caymanian Civil Servants and get them new jobs in the private sector by cancelling work permits and putting Caymanians into those spots. He has his mind on Government's accountants – about 13 of them: I reckon that is going to cure our problems. All the prospective MLAs only have their mind on the salary of the job; prestige of the job; and power coming with the job: but very few know what it takes to run a country. Finally, Alden you must feel that Arden is the PPM's Prospero.
Ezzard Premier and Arden Deputy Premier.? Are you really thinking that will happen. NOW in truth and fact, do you really believe that will work. What a mess this Island will be in then. Please Fairplay come with better thoughts. As much as Bush is critized, bothe me and you and a host of Caymanians know that Bush is the Best man for the job.
God help us if Bush is the best we can do for then we are doomed.
Arden left the PPM for two simple reasons: he became frustrated with the lack of proactive leadership within the PPM (after all he is the Action Man), and his constituents would not continue to support him as a member of the PPM.
Well done Arden, the party system is Cayman relic and should be buried for good along with our less honourable MLAs of the day!
Two former PPM Ministers now out of the PPM party. A significant development and indictment on the PPM and Alden in particular. Arden and Chucky are wise men.
Whats next guys ? Enquiring minds want to know !!!
Kurt quits being the leader, Chuckie leave, Eastender quits the part. Miller opens his mouth playing the big man. Cayman next party will be meeting tonight at Kurt’s bar in Northside. Go visit and see who is running. Alden is sitting at another bar on Sheddon road very lonely… LOL oh and Mac’s in church.
The more divide the better for all of us so we can put independents in power, no more parties, let’s have some new blood in Cayman..
I would suggest that Kurt Tibbets resign. Can you dumb clucks see that Kurt and Anthony Eden is not interested in Politics any more. TELLME when was the last time they opened their mouth to say anything, except snore.
They need to resign, not from the party only but from the house, and home hom to their home and get some rest. They are going to be voted out next election anyway.
I applaud your decision Mr. Arden. You are now in good company with independent member Ezzard who has set the standard for independent thinking and devout representation for his district. As an independent member you are no longer bound by party dogma and are free to pick and choose what philosphies, policies and actions are best suited for you to serve your district. This is as it should be. I wish that the good people of the PPM whom I respect greatly could reform their party and even rename it to the something like "Independent Party for Government Reform". I wish they would abandon party politics and the time it wastes when such men could better spend their time as Mr. Ezzard does by finding solutions to problems. I am sure that if all members of PPM were to joinn Ezzard and Arden in casting off the chains of the party that you would have no problem being elected. In fact, I belive you would be more popular without the stigma of belonging to a party which has a pre-determined platform that members must adhere to. The Independent Party I outlined above is not really a party at all except that people running under that ticket vow reform our government policies and procedures so as to avoid the blatent misuse of power we are now seeing in our Premier. Everyone knows that OMOV was just a first step in working our way to eventually trying to do away with the party system. You all have brains and the ability to make informed decisions that are good for all of Cayman without party restrains and guidlines. As a party member your talents and methods will always be contested by the opposing party simply because of party politics. As independents, each member is considered a separate entilty unto themselves each with the best interest of their disctricts as heart.
Let's fix Cayman. Elect independent members to represent us.
Ezzard and Arden. Two of a kind. Loud mouthed, abrasive, anti British and anti expat and pro independence and representing a tiny population of the Islands. Small island politicians nostalgic for the days of kitchen bands when there were no furriners but happy to collect the huge MLA salaries that the furriners have enabled. May God in His mercy help the Cayman Islands.
Sat 18:27: Sorry Bobo. You seem to like numbering so: (1) If you don't think Ezzard is anti-expat but is just pro Caymanian, you have not followed him as closely as I have since 1990 (and before but that is another story). Remember his TV interviews with Oswel Rankine? I bet you don't but they were very revealing about eg independence (which you do not comment on). (2) Other than anecdotal "information" from CNS, can you substantiate your claim that Ezzard and Arden speak for " a largepercentage of the poulation"? (3) You are correct to pick me up on my use of the word furriners. I should have written it as "furriners". I am only too acutely aware of the correct spelling of the word but chose to represent it as the way Mr Miller and, coincidentally, Mr Mc Lean, pronounce it. (4) "foreigners…who have come and enjoyed a better way of life than they were able to do at home". Shock, horror. The United States of America (how about Canada too?) was founded on just that principle and is still benefitting from what you evidently believe to be a negative thing. But guess what? I bet if I told you I had a US passport to give you so you could go there and live, you would, like the vast majority of people (who hate to admit it) grab it and run.(5) May God bless etc.
I am not following. Are you saying that if Ezzard thinks that we should prepare for independence in the future that makes him anti-expat? Tim Ridley thinks so too. What does that make him? What is it precisely thatyo say makes Ezzard anti-expat rather than pro-Caymanian? Or do you feel these terms are interchangeable? Many expats do.
In thinking of Arden's decision to leave the PPM presumabily to become an Independent, I am puzzled as to the logic of leaving one of the 2 major parties to join Ezzard as Independent. One would think that joining the majority government would help Arden best serve his East Enders and leaving the PPM doesn't seem to make sense.
He doesn't state any political ideological differences with the PPM which force his leaving and one would hope that the news media or Rooster would query this political move. Perhaps Ezzard is going to challenge the PPM for the leadership of the country next election.
If you didnt see this coming you are blind. Arden has been pulling away from the PPM ever since they chose Alden as their leader when Kurt stepped aside.
The PPM has new, young, educated and talented candidates like Wayne, Marco, Kenneth Al and Woody, the party is in good hands and these guys can lead us into the future. It was time for a change and it is here.
I wish these young men well and ask that they boldly take their places and lead us into the new era where votes are not bought, politicians are statesmen, there is no corruption, there is prudent, wise intelligent decision making and no one is bullied into making decisions simply because the leader says so.
This is 100% positive and I welcome it…Time for change… and I hope the PPM is ready to take the Govt back now.
I have some bad news for you. Those five people you named will not be getting in, can you imagine a bunch ofgreen Horns stumbling over each other. Experience will will this election + money. Nothing else.
Arden resignation is a surprise to me,. but I would say to him watch which politicians you are sleeping with because you will find out that only his district like him. It goes to show that the PPM was never stable from the beginning. Now why would Cayman want to put in a new group of people who dont even know how to open house. That is not what we will do.
Never was a fan of Alden, and I cant say that I blame Arden to dismiss his time spent with him. Alden is too much in him self, and you really cant decipher the truth from fairy tales when he speaks.
Arden has his arrogant ways too, like Ezzard, at times you wish you did'nt have to associate with any of them.
I beleive that if we had a coalition government we would prosper better.cause when those two show their resentment towards expats as well as some of our own caymanians we will be in a much worse shape than we are now.
They are in it for the money as well as all the others are. Wake up Cayman, clean house in 2013, lets start off with all new members. God bless you all.
Yes just vote Mackeeva and that bunch of pirates back in and see where you end up.
'…new, young, educated and talented candidates.'
This maybe true to some extent, but the other key words that are left out and needs to be focused on here is 'Politically Inexperienced'.
With their large numbers and those they intend to replace, the lack of experience in politics presents an unsuitable formula / equation.
Political inexperienced should not be fatal to chances, at least having a tertiary education is the start of basic qualifications for mla – cuz lord knows we elected nothing but incompetent muppets now
I would like to see Anthony, Moses and Kurt resign also so that the PPM can see that Alden was the worst leader they could choose.
Folks let me put this into perspective for you.
Arden wants to lead the PPM and take leadership from Alden and I do not blame Alden for standing his ground. If he was a weak leader he would have compromised but he is not so if Arden cant take the heat he needs to get out of the kitchen. You cannot have two bulls in one pen.
Now for all of you Independent supporters who think that this is going to save us from the big bad UDP listen up.
If another party or group made up of Ezzard and Arden and some Independents comes forward they are going to unintentionally help the UDP retain power because they will be splitting all the anit-UDP votes between themselves and the PPM. I am smart enough to know half of 10 is 5 so lets (taking a word from Ellio) form ananalogy.
If UDP has 100 votes in the bank, these are hard core UDP votes and then there are 100 votes that are against the UDP. Some of the anti-UDP votes support PPM and some support the Independents. what happens on election day ? UDP has 100 votes secure and PPM and Independents each get 50. In my book 100 beats 50 any day and UDP wins.
Why not? Arden has left he could go and support UDP for all they know. He can no longer be trusted he is not pushing the PPM agenda now.
Because it would be foolish in the extreme and would help McKeeva instead. Hell will freeze over before Arden joins the UDP.
Dont swear on the Bible over that one, I hear they already spoke
Some Perspective, this is really very sad to see that in less than 10 years Caymanians are so entrenched in political parties. I have always been so happy at the political maturity of Caymanians back up until the formation of politicial parties as we were always independant thinkers. Prior to political parties this country was on sound footing now all we have is division and soon to be political tribalism. I heard the Hon Ralph Gonsalves ask at the inception of the PPM at Bodden Town Civic center "Cayman has a good system as it is why would you want to change it?" This came from a man who knows alot about the party system. If Caymanians were smart they would have rejected the idea then, but because there are too many people of bad intentions (that ran away from their own countries because of political tribalism) whispering in the ears of Caymanians and all the men with backbone are either too old or dead and the women are being drowned out or they are compromised that is why this county is sinking so fast. I hope CNS will print this and you will be around long enough for someone to remember. I say without fear if this country continues down the road that it is going politicially and socially in less than 4 years we will have serious political tribalism and third world style poverty and crime.
PPM, it is very foolish to go on the attack against Arden. You can only lose support by doing so. You need to take a long hard look at yourselves and ask yourselves whether this is really only about Arden's ego or rather about the lack of leadership within the PPM. Get real.
Oh dear, the political pundits are on it!!! the pontiication is under way. if we stand poised and ready to tear down everyone who steps forward to run for political office as "inept " in some way, then who should I vote for?
What we need to do is call on Arden, Ezzard, Alden and who ever else to map out what their plans are for our country long in advance of May 2013. Give us time to fully understand what they say they intend to do. Listen to views from a range of voices in our society and then decide who among the runners of that race in our district best represents what we feel is best for us. Importantly what are the plans around spending and revenue generation, building a more cohesive society human capital developement etc.
By the time 1 January 2013 hits and the political engines startup, with media contracts signed we are dead ducks. The pressure from the emotions of this upcoming election will be seriously harsh and pounding.
To begin with McKeeva wants his second term as Premier at any cost.So go figure. He is working is plan right now, in case we are not looking.
What I strongly suggst is that we sound a clarion call to all these political runners that we want things different this time. We want to make our own decisions, we don't need any of them to ram down our throats their ideas, We are capable of thinking for ourselves.
Trust we, if we the people do what we have always done, rest assured we Will not get what we appear to have always got.
Do I smell a 3rd party brewing?
We all smell something. It's Cayman politics and it isn't nice.
In what country is politics nice!?
No but I can smell your arm pits!
Ezzard, Arden, Chuckie, Austin Harris, Frank Mac; who else, Gildbert???
Sure looks like a third party… everyone wants to be chief, who wants to be the indians?
Nope that was just me….
My bad.
Mr. McLean you should have done this in 2004 when the government of the day destroyed his country with the stroke of a pen. Now we have lost control of our country. Socially, financially and politically becuase don't believe they will not challenge our laws in who is able to run for political office. I can just see the Jordanian doing that. Our young people need good ledership that they can look up to not cowards and those who is always seekiing how to be invited to the next social event.
The govt. of the day in 2004 was the UDP. Why would that have caused someone to resign from the PPM?
What party? where? can I come? unna frying fish or cooking turtle meat?
One of the problems facing independent candidate is the perception by some that independent means working alone.In fact an independent candidate is one who is not obligated to vote or otherwise follow the rules of any political party.In other words a party member is expected to follow the dictates of the party even if his conscience tells him otherwise.This could result in a member choosing party ahead of country or maybe risk being thrown out of the party. However that does not mean that it is impossible for Independents to form a Government. In fact under the present system of 15 Mlas ,we could have 8 members come together to choose the Premier and Cabinet even though they were elected independent of any party affiliation.As members of Cabinet ,however , they would be bound by Collective responsibllity. and therefore it would require finding agreement on matters of national importance;but it would not require them to be members of a political party.
Enough with parties! Vote in all Independents! People you know will represent you and you can hold them strictly accountable!
What, and have an uncoordinated rabble fighting for positions of political power – politics in Cayman would be reduced to a ladies ” Mud Wrestling Match “. On second thought, that would be a lot better than what we presently have.
Arden, you took the right step. Leave Alden and his incompetent PPM executive committee members. Tell them to go ahead and keep protecting him and his arrogant and know it all attitude. See if that will help save our Country. Shame on the PPM to lose a good fighter like Arden.
Is this just relabeling with the same people or are the independents going to bring new, pragmatic, and representative solutions that benefit all. Reshuffling the chair decks on a sinking ship, or ready to present truly new and independent ideas untied to incompetent allowances or buddies.A 4 th party would need to spring up to test that hypothesis.
Smart move Mr. McLean. You have the country’s interests at heart. Mr.McLaughlin used the term ‘political fortunes’ in relation to your decision. An unfortunate choice of words that suggests where his heart is.
Best News I heard, great job Arden. PPM is a joke!! Come on down independents or a new political party. Behind you 100% Arden!!
Alden McLaughlin is not good at keeping the Party United, imagine when he gets in for another 4 years… will Cayman remain United? This does not look good on the PPM lot.
Now 3 want to be the next PREMO!
Another resignation, another major blow to the PPM.
Minister Chuckster and now Minister Action Man…….the only two that offered charisma and excitement on the PPM Platform. Who will replace them for the upcoming campaign or will anyone replace them ?
Who will leave next ? Is Alden considering his Leadership (or lack thereof) qualities ?
SHM !!!
According to another poster PPM will have Wayne Panton and Woody DaCosta.
You might get some charisma from Chuckie on the political platform, but if he is elected again please don’t expect to be able to speak to him or get any response from him on any issue whatsoever once he’s in his ivory tower. That’s what got him unelected last election……he didn’t want to hear anybody’s opinion…even the ones who voted for him!
yep I learned that the hard way…friends with you until he is elected and then acts like you don't exist or treat you like you are the dirt on his shoes after he is elected. He lost my confidence in him. Power went to Chuckie's head and he was just too full of himself forgetting the people that put himthere.
He can run but certainly won't get my vote again. A leopard doesn't change his spots.
i neva saw any dirt on his shoes. they always so shiny and freshly polished….
Damn……..first Charles Clifford resigned from the PPM, then Ossie resigned as General Secretary, then Fonso distanced himself and now Arden resigns !!! So two former PPM Ministers have left the party !
Its time to look in the mirror Mr. Leader of the Opposition !!!
in case u forgot, the first three lost their seats in the last elections after serving only one term, before they left the PPM.
Arden has now resigned for reasons we can at present only speculate on.
Bravo!
Does Alden really believe that the PPM will lead the next government.
He is more disillusioned than Mckeeva. Why does he think Arden is getting out now.. No more PPM baggage for him.
Are you suggesting you can read Alden's mind? Party politics has HAD it's disgusting day in Cayman, folks It is F-I-N-I-S-H-E-D, Cayman, and praise God Almighty for that. Arden knows that, and I am sure Alden does too. Our next Government is going to be voted in as individuals because because of who and what they are as INDIVIDUALS, not because of which clan they belong to or because of which clan can buy the most fridges, or because of which clan can tell the most lies on the other clan. McKeeva Bush used all his dirty little cards as usual to try to prevent that from happening and he lost. Miserably. It is GOING to happen, Cayman. For that we can all praise God Almighty.
Did the right thing.. Just maybe a little too late though..
Part of the next (PPM) government? You can't be serious. Poor Alden couldn't organise a round of drinks in a brewery never mind run the country. You all remember the lunacy in education when he tried to be a minister? Bush needs to go, but Alden?!!
(Maybe the doomed duo from BT will follow suit and depart from the UDP, and Rolston – if he really thinks the West Bayer's who oppose the closure of the road are going to vote for him he'd better think again. Better he leaves the UDP now to even stand a chance.)
This is a good thing. This man has a Moral Compass and is always pointed in the right direction. PPM fumbled when they did not include OMOV in the constitutional protections when they were in power. PPM is better then UDP however. An independent political movement is needed to put in place a better politcal structure. This country needs to move forward and this is the only way I see. Please tell me if I'm wrong. More like minded people need to come forward as this true Patriot has done.
I have expected events like this to occur for sometime now because of the constant rhetoric and positioning in the media in particular on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This is what I call ‘Political Maneuvering’.
Alden and Ezzard cannot work together on the same team because both want to be 'Premier' but are like two bulls in the 'same pen' positioning for dominance.
Alden has now distanced himself from Ezzard somewhat because he has realized the strategy Ezzard is employing for sometime now directly and indirectly. Another reason maybe that of Aldens explanation of Ezzards 90%-10% strategy as mentioned in recent edition of 'The Journal' when disseminating information to the public.
Quote:
‘I am not the swashbuckler that Ezzard is; I don’t believe in this principle which he espouses that all you need is 10 per cent of the truth… as long as people believe what you say.’
Click the link below for the full article (‘London Calling’ section, second paragraph from last):
http://www.compasscayman.com/journal/2012/03/07/A-dinner-conversation-with—-Alden–McLaughlin/
Arden’s repositioning with Ezzard has substantially increased his chances of becoming the next ‘Deputy Premier’ should they become successful at the 2013 election.
It now remains to be seen who else will run as a so-called ‘Independent’ with possible ties to next ‘Unofficial (Independent) Political Party’.
Aligning oneself more closely with Ezzard Miller is neither wise or acceptable.
I think this is great news for the constuents of East End. I wish Mr. McLean the very best of luck in his future as an independent candidate in next years elections.
I can only wish that even just one of the faithful seated on the stage at Wednesday's lecture had the strength to follow suit.
Spelling spelling!! Google is right there…….
Good going Alden. You are the greatest opposition leader we ever had.
That is the best thing that could happen, they should only be one person per district, that would save thegovt $$$!!
So……..with the ONLY true voice of the opposition gone- I see that demise of the PPM and a new more robust and meaningful party being formed. Do I sense Arden Ezzard, Chuckie, Ozzie, Fonso, Lucille and others forming a new alliance/allegiance then ultimately a new party. The PPM have always been a oppostion party of silence. Where is Tony Eden? What has he contributed the past 3 years?? Kurt is frying conch fritters! Moses is tending shop in Cayman Brac and Alden is looking confused. So, do I blame Arden for leaving- hell NO! In fact- it gives him more credibility as a man and a politician. All I will ask him to do is to not allow Ezzards irrational and overboard behavior to overcome him. Arden is a man of integrity and this move epitomizes that.
Thank God for Ezzard's irrational and overboard behaviour because lots of the benefits that many Caymanian enjoy today was as a result of his foresight and overboard behaviour. For one I thank him for the pension plan outside of government as there was no pension for Caymanians who worked for 30 to 40 years in the same job expecially the tourism industry where themany people who know so much about Caymanians claim that we don't want to work in. I remember many Caymanian ladies who gave the best part of their lives working in the tourism industry when they had to retire all they got was a watch, how very symbolic? It is people like you that know absolutely nothing about this country and want to blog garbage that should remain silent and go sit at the feet of your elders to learn something or go speak with a real Caymanian that is not compromised.
Good move Arden…we now need some more of your calibra to run in the next election so we can get our country back from the devil's hands.
I can vote for you but I support you and Ezzard for all that you are doing for this country and it's people. God Bless us all!!!
This suggests that Mr. McClean has correctly reach the conclusion that party political politics has be detrimental for the Cayman Islands. If many more MLAs of both the UDP and PPM followed his lead, you'd see the breakdown of the party system in Cayman, which many feel would be best for Cayman. Would a conglomerate of independants be better than the combative, Punch and Judy knock-about two party political system?
This was a long time in coming. Well done, Mr. McLean. You have my utmost respect.
Interesting. Maybe Ezzie and McLean are looking to join up with some of the young politically active Caymanians that have been involved with the tax protests? Anything that offers a departure from the UDP/PPM circus is welcome in my opinion.
Ezzard and Arden, hope you will put Garth Arch on board your ship, a very educated and reliable young man.
No need. They agree on the essential point that McKeeva and crew must go.
I may not agree with everything Arden says, but that was a smart move, breaking away from a party! Hope he stands up for himself and his district and no other interest.
Good for Mr. McLean. Alden has the political instinct of a mouse – why would anyone follow him… If only Mr. Miller and Mr. McLean were to step it up a bit (e.g., call for a general three-day strike; occupy Heroe's square; pressure the police, judiciary and FCO to drastically speed up their investigation of Mr. Bush; etc…) The Beaver
Well I wonder if PPM will be putting a candidate in East End and North Side to run – or is this just an "independent" gimmick by Arden, Ezzard and the PPM.
Arden and Ezzard!, tha marriage has been going on since the failed party structure that they and Gilbert Mckean, Linforsd Pierson and a host of other bandits and friends started back in the 80's. when are we going to see our beloved land led by leaders whose mission it is to do for country above all interests. when will we again have "men" of iron will and steel nerves that will lead us into tightening our belts and facing the economic storm and navigating again to safe harbour. When will we realize that we are impoverishing our selves physically, spiritually and socially by not unifying ourselves as othe nationalities that live amongst us do and help each other uplift each other and move forward from strength to strength.
If we dont address ourselves and focus collectively in the upcoming election and vote not for what you can get out of it personally, but what those you elect will bring to the table. (skils, knowledge, honesty integrity and love for country);contribute positively to all of our lives,citizens and esidents then we can rest assured that we will indeed perish and be remembered not as the Islands that Time forgot, but the Islands that did not make it.
God Bless these Cayman Islands
In response to those talking about- enough of the parties- vote the independents.
Think of this folks. During the Campaigning they all called themselves "Independents" and they will conveniently continue to call themselves that until such time. Arden has resigned from the party. Mr. Mclean was acting as "An independent in his mind long before this announcement"- so it just goes to show- that all along it has only been a "Show" In my opinion from the time he could not assume the leadership of the PPM that was it for him. ”He changed”
Once members are elected they Change who they are- yes they maybe independent thinkers- but in the "CLOSET" they are something else be it a silent party affiliate or they go against their own mindset/conscience an maintain an independent position and accomplish very little.. The members simply have to come together to form some sort of alliance some may want to see allegiance too.
In my view it would be impossible to function without some form of structure or direction. Do we want a house full of disjointed MLA'S that can’t work together? (Have we not seen enough of that in successive Governments?) we want MLA'S singing from the same hymn sheet? Singing the song “Cayman the land we love" and not "I love myself and those who support and follow me better" the people of this country Caymanians, and residents alike. "We all live here" and those people who were expats years ago and are now considered Caymanians- please feel like you are "CAYMANIAN" we are not talking about Nationalities or a person’s birthplace here- remember that. Because I still get the feeling that that even those persons who have acquired “Caymanian Status” and by law are considered “Caymanian” is still “Jumping in the category of an expat” “you are wrong” an expat in my view is a person who cannot call themselves “Caymanian” by the definition of the law. So “Caymanians” please be loyal to the Cayman Islands. Any by no means am I suggesting that you should not “Love the country of your birth”
And those of you who are now Expats and not yet Caymanians- remember that technically you are fighting against yourselves- because you know what? "You too potentially have the opportunity to be called “Caymanian” when the process allow and if you so chooses" Some of you may never get the chance- but you never know- so whatever you do in these Islands- please remember that it may have a profound impact on our future- I beg one and all to participate in our future in a positive way by selecting good leaders for our country- the Land we love- or suppose to love.
"Arden has resigned from the party. Mr. Mclean was acting as "An independent in his mind long before this announcement"- so it just goes to show- that all along it has only been a "Show" In my opinion from the time he could not assume the leadership of the PPM that was it for him. ”He changed”
Nonsense. The fact that Arden remained as how as he did notwithstanding the evident frustration about the lack of leadership within his party was a sign of his loyalty. It is very difficult for one to follow if no one is leading. At the end of the day his constituents are telling him they want him out of the PPM. Who would you listen to – your constituents who elected you or the party that you belong to?