“A very special son of Cayman”, Mr. Ormond L. Panton, OBE (1920 to 1992) was one of the most prominent political figures in Cayman’s history. Mr. Ormond founded Cayman’s first political party and was the first politician to win an election as party leader.

Career

As a member of the National Democratic Party, he was heavily involved in politics and was the youngest delegate to attend the West Indies Federation discussions.

His professional skills combined with a relish for helping others assured his success in many local trials. Mr. Ormond was regarded as an outspoken attorney, one who also achieved many firsts for his country.

In 1955 he succeeded in confirming his right to a fair trial – a right now enshrined in Article 14 of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. He was also lead negotiator between the UK and its Overseas Territories in discussions on independence. The first Caymanian attorney to appear before the Privy Council in London, he also introduced a motion to allow Cayman authorities to issue US visa waivers, thereby facilitating merchant marine employment for Caymanians.

A member of the Cayman Bar Association, Mr. Ormond also served as a director of Cayman Airways Ltd. between 1980 and 1984. He was also one of the first Chartered Rotarians of Grand Cayman. 

Honours and awards

Honoured by Queen Elizabeth II in 1984, he became an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to society.

His many outstanding qualities ensure that he will forever be honoured for his legal, political and personal contributions to the Cayman Islands.

Personal life

Ormond married Naomi Bodden in 1942 and they had seven children.

Death

Ormond died in 1992.