Philipsburg--- Commissioner Theo Heyliger has officially submitted his resignation from the Democratic Party on Wednesday night. The email which was sent to the leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams was also sent to the media where Heyliger explained the reasons he has decided to tender his resignation. The letter reads as follows:-
Sarah Wescot-Williams
Democratic Party Leader
Government Administration Building
Philipsburg
St. Maarten
June 4, 2009
Dear Sarah,
Resignation from the Democratic Party of St. Maarten
The Democratic Party (DP) is the only party I have known from the day I was born. It is where I found my voice and drive to serve the people of St. Maarten for over 14 years. I have had the privilege to serve with outstanding DP members such as you and the other members of the Executive Council.
DP is in my heart and the love for the party I have grown up in has never faltered. However, over the years the party has had to battle internal elements and interests that have steered it further away from the people it was formed to serve and the reason I have dedicated my energy to serve in public office.
Efforts to bring the party closer to the people and put them back as the main force have often been thwarted. This has made it exceedingly difficult to work in their interest - whether it was a consensus on improving communities or simple projects such as patching roads.
After much thought and consultations with those closest to me - family, friends and supporters - I have decided to tender my resignation as a member of DP.
My first and main interest as I continue my political life will remain the needs of the St. Maarten people. I intend to continue along the path of serving the people for as long as they continue to call on me to serve.
Sincerely,
Theo Heyliger
The Democratic Party lost its majority in the island council of St. Maarten almost a month ago when independent island councilman and former member of the Democratic Party Louie Laveist withdrew his support from the party.
Laviest has given his support to the National Alliance to form the next government. Heyliger is yet to declare himself an independent member of the island council. However, all indications are that Heyliger will do so in the very near future and he too would be giving his support to the National Alliance. An island council meeting is scheduled for Monday June 8th to appoint five commissioners in the new executive council. Already leader of the National Alliance has said that Heyliger would be one of the commissioners that would be appointed in the new government.