Bush denies all charges

(CNS): In the wake of criminal charges being laid against the former and first premier of the Cayman Islands, the United Democratic Party was quick to publicly declare its continued support for their leader. McKeeva Bush also continued to vehemently deny the allegations of theft and corruption that have been made against him and stressed his intention to fight the charges. Tessa Bodden, the new chairman of the UDP, said the party stands behind Bush and was “proud” to have him as leader. Despite speculation that Bush was considering stepping aside as the UDP leader, he said he would continue on.

Bush was formally charge with various offences (See CNS story) on Wednesday afternoon and has been bailed to appear in court on 12 April. Having previously indicated that he expected charges to be brought before the elections, Bush said he expects more to come in what he described as the continuing effort to affect his re-election campaign.

“I have done nothing Illegal and will defend every one of these charges,” the former premier and political veteran said. “As I’ve stated since this campaignagainst me began over three years ago, I am innocent. I will continue as the leader of the United Democratic Party with its full support. These charges will not deter my faith and dedication to all the people of Cayman and to the United Democratic Party.”

Bush is represented by Michael Alberga of Travers Thorp Alberga and has also instructed Geoffery Cox QC from the UK, who appeared in the infamous Eurobank case, along with KD Knight, an eminent QC from Jamaica, who Bush said would be robustly defending his innocence.

Tessa Bodden, who was recently appointed chair of the UDP after the party split following Bush’s arrest, confirmed the party’s solid backing of their leader.

“He has diligently looked after the people of the Cayman Islands from all walks of life for over thirty years and despite this campaign to embarrass Mr Bush, his family, the United Democratic Party and its supporters, he fully intends to continue to do so. Our country has faced adversities before and, like before, the UDP will stand united with the people of the Cayman Islands to face these challenges.”

She said the party’s planned assembly would take place, as planned, Saturday afternoon at the UCCI Sir Vassel Johnson Hall, where the UDP candidates for the upcoming 2013 general elections as well as our the party platform would be announced.