Cayman Islands' lawmakers on Tuesday removed Premier McKeeva Bush from office in a vote of non-confidence, according to reports reaching here from George Town.

The Legislative Assembly vote, proposed by the opposition along with five lawmakers from the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP), ended 11 to 3, with the abstention of Bush.

The 57-year-old political veteran, who has been the target of corruption probes for more than a year, was arrested at his home last week by members of the police's Financial Crime Unit. He was granted bail till next February.

No charge has been filed, but he is suspected of "very active" involvement in the misuse of his government credit card and illegal importation of explosive devices. Bush insists that he is innocent of all allegations.

Cayman Islands, home to more than half the world's hedge funds, is a British overseas territory with an elected assembly and a governor appointed by London.

The Legislative Assembly, which has 15 elected members, is made up of nine UDP members, four from the oppositional People's Progressive Movement and two independents.

Governor Duncan Taylor was expected to announce Wednesday whether he would appoint a new premier or dissolve the parliament and call an early election. Endi

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)