Cayman Islands Premier arrested in corruption probe

Premier Bush is accused of theft in connection with financial irregularities relating to the alleged misuse of a government credit card. He is also accused of breach of trust, abuse of office and conflict of interest, contrary to S13, S17 and S19 of the Anti-Corruption Law 2008. In addition, he is also under investigation for the importation of explosive substances without valid permits on or before February 2012.

Police remained tightlipped on what the public could expect next but would only say that the investigation was continuing. Leonard Dilbert, Chief of Staff of the embattled 57 year old Premier appealed for prayers saying, “I nevertheless urge you, pray for him, and for his family, anyway.”

The Cayman Island is a British Overseas Territory and Britain still maintains jurisdiction and has considerable influence over the Island although the Premier is elected by the general public.

Many persons in the Cayman Islands believe that Britain, similar to what it did in the Turks and Caicos Islands, where the former Premier Michael Misick was recently arrested on corruption charges has adopted a zero tolerance policy toward corruption.

The investigation of Premier Bush dates back several years and his arrest is just the latest episode in an ongoing saga involving corrupt acts allegedly committed by the head of government.

Cayman Island is a leading offshore center known for its secrecy, and featured prominently in the last US general elections when Republican challenger for the presidency Mitt Romney was accused of keeping bank accounts in that country.