Former C4C candidate backs Progressive in BT fight

(CNS): Kent McTaggart, who had planned to enter the race in Bodden Town before he was forced to withdraw as a result of the election law requirements regarding residency, has given his backing to a party candidate as well as another non-coalition independent. McTaggart has endorsed both Al Suckoo from the PPM and Charles Clifford, a former PPM member and now independent candidate who has already stated he will support the PPM to form government if they have the largest group. A staunch advocate for the anti-party movement, McTaggart is asking his supporters to vote for Suckoo, as he says he will put Cayman first, despite being a party member.

“Cayman has serious challenges ahead, which have been mainly caused from outright corruption, compounded by apathy of others,” he said. “We must have representation that not only believes in doing the right thing but also is willing to put their face, name and reputation on the line to put the best interests of Cayman first. I know Al is a worker, I know he is willing to have an opinion prior to knowing if the subject matter is popular or not." 

He continued, "I believe Al is a person that is not defined by the brand he is wrapped around, but rather his personality is part of what defines the brand. I believe that Al will continue to be an independent thinker, and will not follow party lines if there is a better option and result for the people of the Cayman Islands."

Acknowledging that party members can be independent thinkers too, McTaggart, who was a founding member of the Coalition for Cayman (C4C), said that because of his experience with Al and knowledge of his ethical compass, he had no hesitation in endorsing him.

“I have asked many of the voters who pledged support for me during my time as a candidate to give Alva a serious look and consideration for one of their votes. I am suggesting all voters in the district do the same, as Alva Suckoo has given me his word that he will not be defined by a party or label; he has given me his word that he will always do what he considers to be in the best interest of Cayman above all,” McTaggart said.

Suckoo said he humbly accepted the endorsement from McTaggart, with whom he worked closely on the OMOV campaign.

“I know that he is sincere in his statement and that he also wants the best for these islands. I pray that I am successful tomorrow along with my colleagues and I am committed to doing my best to make all our lives better. I think this endorsement is a testament to our love for Cayman and Caymanians and I ask for the people's support at the polls tomorrow," Suckoo added.

McTaggart also offered his backing to Charles Clifford, who is running on an independent platform and did not seek support from the C4C. The former coalition candidate said Clifford and Suckoo had the ability to make decisions that would put the county first, but also the personalities that would not put unnecessary road blocks in the way of working with others in the next government for the betterment of our country. 

“There are many qualified individuals available to receive your votes, but there are very few that have all the boxes checked and the personalities that will allow them to work with other like-minded independent thinkers for the betterment of our islands,” he added.