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George Town, Cayman Islands — Hon. Joseph “Joey” Hew was officially sworn in as Leader of the Opposition by Governor Jane Owen. He succeeds Hon. Roy McTaggart, who served as Leader of the Opposition since April 2021. Hew’s ascension is expected to be followed by his appointment as Leader of the People’s Progressive Movement (PPM) at their upcoming conference in January 2025. This transition marks a critical step in the leadership evolution of the PPM, as the party continues its mission to build a future of stability, opportunity, and unity with Hew at the helm.

Joey Hew: A Proven Leader for a New Era 

Joey Hew has served as Member of Parliament for George Town North since 2013 and has been a dedicated leader within both the public and private sectors. His leadership includes roles such as Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of District Administration, Tourism, and Transport and Minister for Commerce, Planning, and Infrastructure in 2017. He was also elected Deputy Political Leader of the PPM in March 2021 and has served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition since the 2021 Election. His experience in business as Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of his family’s group of companies, combined with his former leadership roles in the Chamber of Commerce and the Cayman Islands Tourism Association, have equipped him with a strong foundation for tackling Cayman’s challenges. 

In his first remarks as Leader of the Opposition, Hew stated, “Mr. Speaker, Cayman is at a turning point. We must ensure that economic stability translates into real progress for every Caymanian. My leadership will be about more than just managing challenges and holding the government accountable; it will be about proposing and delivering workable solutions to shape the future of our island while ensuring no one is left behind and that everyone can participate and benefit from our progress.” In closing, Hew declared his commitment to Cayman’s future stating, “We are ready to fight for a Cayman where every citizen feels the benefits of progress, where every family has hope for a better future and I will not rest until that vision is realised.”

Roy McTaggart’s Legacy of Fiscal Responsibility and Social Advocacy 

Roy McTaggart’s legacy as leader of the opposition included significant contributions in governance, social issues, and economic policies. McTaggart was very vocal about the need for fiscal responsibility and sustainable economic growth. He actively advocated for vulnerable groups, including seafarers and veterans, and was instrumental in securing a stipend boost for these communities in June 2023, reflecting his dedication to social issues. McTaggart also pressed for stronger action on crime and public safety, calling for more proactive approaches to law enforcement.

In McTaggart’s final remarks as Leader of the Opposition, McTaggart expressed his full confidence in Hew’s leadership, stating, “This leadership change marks the next chapter in the PPM’s journey to uplift Cayman. I have worked closely with Joey and know that under his guidance, we will build a stronger, more unified Cayman for all.”

Barbara Conolly: First Female Deputy Leader of the Opposition 

Ms. Barbara Conolly, Member of Parliament for George Town South, was also sworn in as Deputy Leader of the Opposition today. A loyal member of the People’s Progressive Movement since 2002, Conolly has played a pivotal role in the party's development. With a distinguished career in financial services, specialising in corporate and fiduciary roles, Conolly brings a wealth of professional experience to her political service. Since being elected in 2017, she has served in numerous capacities, including as Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Youth and Finance and Economic Development. She is a current member of the Public Accounts Committee. Conolly also serves as the Shadow Minister for Education and Social Development.

Her appointment as Deputy Leader of the Opposition marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first female to hold this position. Conolly’s leadership is expected to play a key role in shaping policies that impact the next generation of Caymanians.

Over the years, Hew, McTaggart, and Conolly have demonstrated a deep commitment to the Cayman Islands and its people. Their leadership continues to inspire confidence in the PPM as the party renew and refreshes its mission to make Cayman a place where progress is achievable for all.