PHILIPSBURG:--- The Government of St. Maarten has made a bold move by instructing the Supervisory Board of NV GEBE, the island’s sole electricity and water provider, to step down immediately. At least two board members have confirmed the directive, which could mark a turning point for an organization struggling with trust and operational challenges.
The decision comes as the utility company continues to face fallout from a severe cyberattack in 2022, which disrupted operations for months. Even two years later, sporadic billing errors and unresolved account issues are causing widespread frustration among customers. Thousands remain in limbo, waiting for clarity on their accounts.
Adding to these issues is the board’s apparent resistance to adopting key recommendations from the Regulatory Authority Council (RAC). Proposals aiming to make electricity more affordable, including revising the fuel clause and lowering rates, have reportedly been met with inaction. This perceived lack of urgency has only deepened public mistrust.
Tensions between the board and Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina have also been in the spotlight, particularly over his push to appoint Jeffreyson Paris as Interim Manager of NV GEBE. The board’s leadership faced additional backlash after approving $15,000 for an interview between interim CEO Thomas Roggendorf and USA Today. While this interview was reportedly aimed at boosting tourism, critics questioned its necessity at a time when utility-related issues remain unresolved. However, sources have said that the Interim CEO allegedly said he was instructed by the Prime Minister to conduct the interview with the US-based media, as it would boost tourism on St. Maarten.
The breakdown in collaboration between the government and the board has created a governance standoff that appears unsustainable. Sources suggest the government’s resignation directive is part of a larger strategy to rebuild public trust in NV GEBE through greater transparency, accountability, and technical expertise. Appointing a new board with a clear mandate is seen as a critical first step toward achieving these goals.
Although most of the current board members’ terms run until 2027, with one exception due to expire later this year, their immediate compliance with the government’s directive remains uncertain. Failure to resign voluntarily could prompt the government to explore legal measures to enforce its decision.
The current board was originally installed under a previous National Alliance-led administration, but increasing public dissatisfaction has fueled calls for change. Since assuming office in late 2024, the Council of Ministers has tackled significant national challenges. The move to replace the GEBE board aligns with their broader efforts to address critical public service issues.
For citizens of St. Maarten, this change represents a pivotal moment. The lingering questions are whether this transition will bring about the long-awaited improvements in utility services and whether the new leadership will restore faith in NV GEBE. All eyes will undoubtedly remain focused on how the government manages this transformation and what it means for the future of public utilities on the island
PHILIPSBURG:---- Police are investigating a vehicle fire that took place around 2:15 AM on Wednesday, July 30, in the employee parking lot of Princess Juliana International Airport. One car was fully engulfed in flames, and three others nearby were also damaged (two of these cars destroyed). The Fire Department quickly brought the fire under control. No injuries were reported.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, July 29th, attentive officers from the Customs Department discovered several illegal firearms hidden within one of the selected consignments during a routine inspection of shipments from a local shipping company. This discovery was part of the Department’s ongoing risk-based enforcement operations, which aim to safeguard national security and protect the public from illicit trade. The illegal items were promptly seized in accordance with national laws and established procedures. As the investigation is still in its early stages, further details regarding the shipment and the individuals involved cannot be disclosed at this time. Updates will be provided as the inquiry progresses, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies. The Customs Department reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the law and protecting our borders from illegal activity. Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior that may threaten the safety and security of our nation.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Statistics (STAT) reports that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in constant prices for the year 2023 is estimated to have grown by 3.4 percent, while GDP at current prices increased by 6.3 percent.
