Governor clears Premier over Kiddiewinks as coup rumours swirl

Governor Jane Owen said she is satisfied that Premier André Ebanks did not breach the Ministerial Code of Conduct over the government's acquisition of the former Kiddiewinks preschool, following a review by the attorney general, Cayman News Service and the Cayman Compass report. The Premier welcomed the finding, Cayman Marl Road reports, describing the CI$6.5 million purchase as involving no conflict requiring his withdrawal. Opposition Leader Joey Hew had written to the Governor seeking further scrutiny, according to the Caymanian Times. Separately, CNS reports that factions within the NCFC government began meeting separately last week amid coup rumours.

On the economy, the Caymanian Times reports estimated growth of 2.4% in the first quarter of 2026 and a central government surplus of more than CI$317 million, supported by tourism and financial services. September brought 15,303 stayover visitors, up 18.4% year on year and an eleventh consecutive month of growth, with 376,495 overnight arrivals to end-September, per CNS. The Ministry of Finance has rejected criticism in a recent Auditor General report, blaming the OAG for audit delays.

In professional services, the Cayman Compass reports Dentons Cayman is buying HSM Chambers, absorbing most of its lawyers, support staff and Fort Street headquarters. Collas Crill appointed Louise Freestone as a corporate partner. Experts told the Compass the US$6.3 billion Binance hack would not undermine crypto growth in Cayman.

Operationally: all air passengers to the US must complete a CDC health attestation form from 11:59pm EST on 3 November (CNS); the DCI warns of Trade and Business Licence renewal delays; and Customs and Border Control has opened a one-month overstayer amnesty running to 30 November. CUC told the Cayman Independent that LNG could cost less than diesel as a transition fuel, while solar remains a priority.