Philipsburg: --- Even though not willing to share his thoughts on the verdict of Louie Laveist senator and Island Council man Frans Richardson said that politics on St. Maarten has hit rock bottom. Richardson said the case of Laveist is still ongoing since the embattled commissioner has appealed the verdict handed down last week.
Asked about the political status on St. Maarten Richardson said right now St. Maarten is in a difficult position and it does not seem as if the island can get its foot on the issues affecting the people. He said right now politicians are occupied with the issues affecting politics instead of those affecting the population. This is to show that politics on St. Maarten has hit rock bottom.
Asked if he thinks a referendum should be held locally Richardson said when St. Maarten held its referendum in 2000 they did not make provisions for the people to go back to the polls. He said politicians on St. Maarten made other options which are not the same as in Curacao. However, the councilman said if the people of St. Maarten feels that are what has to be done they need to speak up and say what it they want is.
He said politicians would have to respect the wishes of the people but they need to make their voices heard and not remain laidback. Richardson said he felt that is one of the main hindrances on St. Maarten even though not knowing the real reasons why the people are so quiet. He said he does not know if it is because there are over 100 nationalities on the island each of who have their own opinion.
Asked if he is in favor of separate status or independence. Richardson said that he does not believe people should not mix up these issues. He said whether or not there is country status or independence the judicial system would always be in place and has to be respected. The island council man said he does not believe people should use the verdicts of Laveist or anyone else to determine what type of status is needed. "Independence is basically a state of mind, something that people want on to be on their own. If the courts need to deal with certain people let it be and not mix the issues." Richardson explained that people need to respect the separation of powers.
Asked if St. Maarten is financially ready to go independent Richardson said he would like to know which country is really ready. He gave an example of the United States that is now in trillions of dollars in debt and facing recession yet they are making it. He felt it is the leaders are the ones who have to make sure the interest of people are defended.
