Is McKeeva Bush a ‘doctor’?
Updated with response from McKeeva Bush: I was on the Legislative Assembly website and noticed that in the biography section, McKeeva Bush is given the title “Dr”. I don’t recall him ever earning a university degree, much less a PhD. When did he earn his doctorate?
Auntie’s answer: I checked the website and you are certainly right about that. Here is the link to Mr Bush’s biography where he is listed as “Dr. Hon. W. McKeeva Bush, OBE, JP, Hon MSc, MLA”. I am not aware of any doctorate that Mr Bush has earned through academic study, though there was the honorary doctorate that was almost, but not quite, conferred in 2013.
In the above list of titles, I am assuming that the “Hon” bit refers to his being “Honourable” (which is, of course, forever) and not linked to the “Dr” bit, as in “honorary doctorate”, which seems to be the case for the “Hon MSc” part of his title. I believe this refers to an honorary master’s degree that, according to his Wikipedia page, was conferred by the International College of the Cayman Islands, though it does not say when.
Here’s what Wikipedia says about honorary degrees: “It is sometimes recommended that such degrees be listed in one’s CV as an award, and not in the education section. With regard to the use of this honorific, the policies of institutions of higher education generally ask that recipients ‘refrain from adopting the misleading title’ and that a recipient of an honorary doctorate should restrict the use of the title ‘Dr’ before their name to any engagement with the institution of higher education in question and not within the broader community.”
Members of the clergy in some denominations are sometimes referred to as “Reverend Doctor” but, again, that is generally if they actually have earned a doctorate by studying for it, though religious institutions also confer honorary doctorates of religion to people, and perhaps Mr Bush has received one of these.
But either way, I am not a big fan of people using those as titles if they have have been given degrees without studying for it through a recognised university — not a diploma mill. It is a mark of a specific achievement and should be reserved for those who have put in the work, which can take years, even decades. This issue came up last year and I made my feelings clear about this practice at the time. (See When is a doctor not really a doctor?)
In addition, many academics consider it rather crass to use the title “Dr” even by those who have earned PhDs, because they believe it should only be used by medical doctors.
All that said, it’s possible that Mr Bush has been secretly studying for X amount of years and has legitimately earned the right to call himself “Dr McKeeva Bush”, in which case he might want to update his Wikipedia page, which currently indicates that he did not finish high school.
But if not, while he has achieved much in his life, including being the Cayman Islands’ very first premier, it might be a good idea not to use that title.
I would, of course, welcome input from Mr Bush himself on the matter, as I’m sure he disagrees with me.
Update from Auntie: McKeeva Bush has not responded to me, however Wendy Ledger, one of the owners of CNS, received this message from him via WhatsApp. Here it is in full:
From McKeeva Bush:
[9:25 AM, 7/5/2018] Wendy: Tell auntie and the other sobs that my lawyer will read what they say. I won’t !
I will decide how to handle you and them under the standing orders.But for now….
Some people always throw stones in your path. It depends on what you make with them; a Wall or a Bridge? – Remember you are the architect of your life.Take that!!!
[9:25 AM, 7/5/2018] Wendy: So you know !!!
Here’s what one wise person wrote to me about you and cns kind of racism bigotryThe legacy of colonialism which is the mother of racism will continue to manifest itself in all walks of our daily lives! Until the philosophy that holds one race superior than the other is finally discredited and abandoned,and the color of a man skin is no more significant than the color of his eyes,we will continue to see these acts of prejudice perpetrated against us! I know you see and experience it in your daily political interactions at the highest level!
No matter how they dress it up they will never acknowlege us as being equal to them! But is not what they teach us but what we know! Mac as the bible quotes! Prove all things,and hold fast to that which is good!I have learned to laugh at you and that “pop eyed soldier crab”who you say own cns.
Even more from McKeeva Bush:
Your criticism of me only shows how really wutless and poor you and your slander sheet is!!!
While you criticize me about a doctorate I’ve been honored with only just shows just how poor and lowdown in journalism(simply just can’t call it that though) you and the “ pop eyed soldier crab”is!!!
Ha ha ha????????????????!!!!By the way you ought to know since you and “your make believe writers” are so interested,there are several other well known and decent Caymanians who havd been so honored.
Category: Ask Auntie, MLA Questions
This should be brought to the attention of both the “stolen valour” organisation and the UK International group “The Walter mitty hunters club” both of these expose UK and US “walts” who claim false awards or military service. I wear my medals once a year on remembrance day …those that know ..know. I have no wish to impress Clingons or any other would be ego bloaters.
At least we now know that our Speaker reads CNS and is aware of his standing in the public opinion.
He doesn’t need to read this to know the general population thinks he needs to retire.
Whatever he got his PhD in, it sure isn’t English. “Dumb as Rocks Studies” on the other hand…
As a leader, his calm, unemotional response should have been either “thanks for asking, here are my credentials” or at worst “no comment”. If senior leaders do not have the emotional control necessary to avoid petty squabbles, heaven help us in a real test of character. And I use the term leader only to represent his position, past or present, and certainly not to reflect character.
If I remember correctly, and please correct me if I am wrong, the Honourary Doctorate was revoked when “the Honourable” was being investigated for misuse of the Government credit card while gambling in casinos while on official government business trips.
Who is the pop eyed soldier crab?
Nicky: Since it was sent to Wendy, I believe he is referring to me. However, while I’m assuming it’s derogatory, I have no idea what it means. Milk and carrots.
Good lord! Calling yourself Doctor is an insult to those who have legitimately EARNED their Ph.Ds
Is this some kind of “rundown” style art piece or…is the “forever honerable” speaker of our house actually an unashamadly illiterate vulgarian? Trump has nothing on this bobo
Mr. McKeeva, I have respect for you as an elected member of the MLA although I didn’t vote for you. The people spoke and I respect that regardless of my own views but in light of that. Instead of texting the owners of CNS and acting like a child. Post your proof? Everything I have seen says your title was revoked. Prove me wrong, please.
Doesn’t this fool realize it’s the public writing these comments and not CNS? I mean seriously? How blatantly ignorant can you be? And it’s amazing how someone who sees themselves so educated will stoop to such lack of decorum and name calling in their texts to the owners of the CNS. Goes to show he really does walk and talk like a school yard bully.
Thank you Mac for clearing that up. You are a Doctor and anybody that challenges you is a colonial racist sob. And here I was thinking that the difference between your supporters and your detractors was based on intelligence and integrity. You are truly a legend in your own mind.
So he’s the one they call Dr. Feelgood!
Ashamed to say I’m related to him!!!!
He’s the Macster of disaster!
Wuhloss. Me belly. Love it Dr. Mac
Perhaps Ezzard should consider a perjury charge?
As someone with real academic qualification (though not a doctorate, yet), I’m irritated by this, though not surprised.
Dr. Kiss Kiss? Who can ever forget that old song…
It’s a very simple question that Mr Bush is unable to answer. It shows his maturity, that he would fling mud instead of just providing a dignified response befitting someone of his public position.
McKeeva.. Cayman Trump. McTrumpa.. LOL
Not anywhere close 4:59pm Thank heavens. Bush can’t hold a candle to Trump.
True but you how it goes with the exchange rate.. US$1 is CI$0.80
Oh and Mac – I may be the architect of my own life, but that doesn’t give me the right to list myself as an architect on my CV.
Love his comeback, always a deflection and finger pointing at others for racism and whatever other kind of B.S. they can throw in – deflect never just get to the truth, acknowledge that you have been caught out in a lie (or a misrepresentation at the least) apologize and remove the reference in the biography. Oh no, that would be too simple, too adult.
It’s Mac, what do you expect.
I don’t think Bob Marley would be too pleased to see his lyrics being abused in this ‘rant’ by Mac.
Actually, Haile Selassie
I love the fact that he said that was written “to him”..
Haile Selassie speech to the United Nations, Oct.4, 1963
“[9:25 AM, 7/5/2018] Wendy: So you know !!!
Here’s what one wise person wrote to me about you and cns kind of racism bigotry”
Racism bigotry… two words used in the wrong way on so many levels by Mac. And then to close with
“I have learned to laugh at you and that “pop eyed soldier crab”who you say own cns.”
I think the “pop eyed soldier crab” should have his lawyer read this too.
CNS: Her lawyer. Cayman News Service is now and always has been 100% owned by Nicky Watson and Wendy Ledger. For some reason, certain politicians refuse to believe this. We have no idea why.
Keep ’em honest girls…they hate light shining on their dishonest deeds….and resort to legal threats to intimidate you. Don’t be intimidated (I know you aren’t) otherwise this place will turn into a place worse than a bucket full of MacCrabs.
I stand… err.. post corrected.. Her lawyers.. Don’t let McCavity the mystery cat scare you. He just can’t handle open opinions. It’s always been his way or the way to hell.
Oh lol lol lol! Lady journalists? Well i never! What next? Lady Drs? Slippery slope….
I know right, next they will be driving and voting, walking and chewing gum at the same time, wearing pants. God help Mac then, his world will crumble.
p.s. Keep up the great work ladies. Don’t let McWindbag TouchtheBush deter you which I know he won’t.
Macdweebler can have whoever he wants read this. Freedom of press and expression. So unless he wants to crush free speech and independent journalism he can go sit down and be quiet.
The one thumbs down obviously is a McTumpa supporter.
So as your friend has said and you have quoted….. “Mac as the bible quotes! Prove all things, and hold fast to that which is good!”….. I say prove it!
I remember from a long time ago that certain people would call him Dr because he would fix everything for them when XXXXX. So maybe that’s where he got the DR from .
Especially on the lead-up to the elections.
No kidding! He’s BARELY literate nevermind being a “doctor”.
Doctor Doo Little
Doctor WHO lmfao
Come on people the man is a Bush Doctor.
He’s a doctor to me!
McKeeva having a PhD is like saying good ole Sam Puck Puck used a GPS and fish finder to catch fish. It’s simply an UNTRUTH. Other than the few handouts here and there, Macweezer has caused this country more shame than I care to want to align with. Just think for a minute, Stan Thomas, Ritz Carlton and Mike Ryan, First Cayman Bank, Casino rampage, bonkey slapping charade in casino and yet look at where he is perched today. While being a total,disgrace to the country he holds his head high and soars like a bald eagle. And we have Alden and the un-unity government wallowing in the shit hole right under Macweezers ass cheek?
To: This is unreal. THIS is THE best post I have read about Mac ALL year. So well put. Brilliantly covers all bases. Ant that last line… PRICELESS!!!
Wish unna still had the LOL button!
Don’t forget the Status giveaway that gave our Country to illiterate & criminally minded persons. No wonder NAU is overwhelmed.
Spin doctor?
You never heard of a West Bay Bush Doctor
No more like the doctor of doom!!!!!!
And don’t forget the master of disaster either
And those Bayers certainly like the ‘brew’ that he has been serving them for the past 30-40 years…
You never heard of the West Bay Bush Doctor
Yea a &^%$ witch doctor is more like it. Got to love that wig!
They just need to create another title for doctorate-level degrees that are non-medical to differentiate.
Medical or not he is not a Dr. I think you missed the point.
Yea he is on the low level.
Technically, a medical doctorate is an honourary degree. A PhD in all other fields is earned by extending the knowledge of that field, and proving something new. That doesn’t happen in a medical doctoral program.
This isn’t to say a medical doctor is any less deserving of the title, but it does show how the awarding of honourary degrees to any old sob who the university vice chancellor plays golf with is devaluing real academic achievement.
Let’s say there’s an emergency on a plane which requires immediate treatment of a sick or injured person. The flight attendant yells “is there a Dr. on the plane?” A voice in the back responds with, “I’m a Dr.!” Upon arrival everyone is disappointed to learn that the individual has a PhD in Art History or Poetry and can’t lift a finger to help.
That’s the world we live in.
Never happened. We don’t live in that world.
Poor man, he really doesn’t know any better.
The man has a Ph.d in shamelessness.
Oh! I thought that said that Mackeeva is a Bush Doctor!! LMAO!!!! Which is also not true BTW.
A love doctor. Or so rumour has it.
What an insult to those Caymanians who have worked so hard and struggled over years and yes even decades to achieve actual degrees. Shame of this egotistic bum and shame of the CIG for allowing such fraudulent details to be listed on the CIG website. This makes the entire Legislature suspect as to their achievements.
Shame on you Mr. Bush.
Well said Mr Barnett, you certainly don’t beat about the bush. Actually think they meant a witch doctor. No doubt in the fulness of time he will appear in Hero’s Square in statuesque form suitably slimmed down from real life (cf Jim Bodden), with his hand poised over the handle of a slot machine.
Yes I remember that. He was meant to go to Jamaica to receive this imaginary title but they revoked it and he DID NOT get it.
But jeepers, what’s the big deal with a likkle fudging on his bio? LMAO
He should be embarrassed but that would take someone with credibility, so…
Unbelievable, but true:
Dec 3, 2012
“The University College of the Caribbean has conferred an honorary Doctor of Public Service Degree on Cayman Islands Premier William McKeeva Bush.
The distinction is expected to be made at the institution’s Fall 2012 commencement ceremony address under the theme “Integrity: the Language of Leadership”. The ceremony will take place at the Jamaica Conference Centre in Downtown Kingston next Thursday.
According to an article in the 3 November Gleaner, “Mr. Bush will be recognised for his years of public service to the people of the Cayman Islands, his efforts in improving the lives of Jamaicans in Cayman through deliberate policy thrusts and his continued efforts in improving the relationship between Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.”
In announcing the decision to confer the degree, UCC singled out what it termed “the politically risky, but principled decisions which Bush has made to improve the standing of many expatriates in Cayman, including a number of Jamaicans who have lived, loved and worked in the neighbouring British territory for years, contributing to its development”.
In a release, the university said it was referring to “the controversial, but far-reaching decision by Mr. Bush’s government in 2003 to grant citizenship to some 3,000 long-term expatriates who had contributed significantly to that country and had established roots, but who faced an uncertain future”.
The UCC board also noted Mr. Bush’s status as the Cayman Island’s longest-serving legislator, which has earned him the moniker ‘Father of the House’ having served in the Legislative Assembly of the Cayman Islands since 1984.”
You should have checked the later articles. He was removed from the office of Premier shortly after that article was published and ultimately did not receive his doctorate.
This is so pathetic, disgraceful, and sad.
I believe that Mac was given an honorary doctorate from the University of West Indies a few years ago which they subsequently revoked?
It was Northern Caribbean University, presumably through his strong Jamaican Adventist supporters, but he could only use the title on Saturdays.
Good to know he is still sporting a title that was revoked; maybe Canover and Aspinall will play the same card later in life.
It was not NCU. UCC was supposed to give one. However it didn’t happen due to some issues at home
The question is why is he using a title that was never given to him.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/power/45094
Doctor of Casino’s maybe? Love Doctor (Unrequited)? Dr. Ritz-Carlton, the well known property owner?
The entire Dr. debacle is a miss-understanding of cultural differences , honestly….your Honour….
Yeah. Great ambassador for the country effectively telling the world that sexual assault/disrespecting women is OK in the Cayman Islands… or even the entire Caribbean, depending on his actual words at the time, which we don’t know, because what we got was the lawyers version. How can anyone in this day and age think this is still acceptable?
The “DR” is his street name . Mr. Bush is a seasoned politician not a DR .
Please send this to OC and ask him to stop referring to Steve Mcfield as Dr. Steve on his Radio Cayman talk show.
Here we go again.fighting Steve down.well you know what they say about Caymanian….crab in a bucket??
It’s just regular crabs pulling down the doctor crabs.
HAHAHAHAHAHA!! Thank you for this belly laugh!!
I heard ‘Dr’ McField describe his specialism as constitutional law not so long ago. He said he only does the criminal stuff to pay the bills… Oh, my sides
Mr. Mcfield is a brilliant person and I sm sure if he really wanted to he could have gotten a real PHD degree, certainly in constitutional law. Sorry i cannot say the same about the other ” Doctor “
Jesus Christo, you’re joking bobo, right? “Brilliant person”? Say wha?
Steve is the gate keeper the vessel of good ole caymanian dooming sense. And he also calls himself a barrister …
Didn’t Mary Lawrence get an Honorary Doctorate from UCCI like Steve? Completely worthless.
I’ve never seen anyone post bounced cheques on their walls with a notice saying “we do not accept cheques from criminal stuff”.
Can we have a conversation about Herr Frank at the same time?
At least Steve HAS an education, and IS a TRAINED and might I add, successful Attorney. Mac has never seen the inside of a college or university classroom, well maybe when he was slapping a bonkey he may have, so to compare his doctorate degree to Steve McFields honorary degree is about as meaningful as chalk on a dry erase board.
Next question – Is the Pope a muslim?
Given the chance he will add Emperor of the Universe to his name if he could.