As we enter the last week of the campaign for the 2014 - 2018 Parliamentary elections I would like to take the time to speak to our voters and all citizens of St. Maarten.
I can imagine you are being bombarded by candidates and parties vying for your vote. You are the most important person to all parties right now, and I can imagine it is overwhelming, but remember that you are important ALL the time and you can voice your opinions at any time and not just at election time.
However, please stay calm and carefully analyze the facts that are presented to you by asking yourself these three questions:
- Who is this person (character)?
- What is his/her track record in politics or in his/her current life/work/community?
- Does his/her party reflect the same values and vision?
Many are talking about a change being needed while their party is in government -and has been for 33 of the 46 months of this term. What does that mean?
How does the current leadership in government factor in with the new candidates - do they really have one Vision?
Ministers are taking decisions in direct violation of the law which will cost the government loads of money, who will be held liable for these decisions?
Members of Parliament have walked out on motions and other resolutions that would have brought relief to the people, or have not spoken out and taken any decisions against those in violation of the rules and laws which has brought about several integrity reports.
Even the headlines this very week are filled with integrity issues which can be prosecuted and paints a very ugly picture to our citizens and the world.
These are all facts that you should consider before voting.
If you would like things to continue as they are then by all means vote for the current parties in control of government.
However if you would like to see a true change in the way government operates, one that includes real transparency, integrity, and hard work for the benefit of the people of St. Maarten then your choice is clear.
Vote for the party for strong leadership, experience, new and innovative ideas to increase revenue, diversify our economy to stimulate the labour market and opportunity for growth for all.
Vote For a representative who will put Education and the development of our Youth as priority one in building a strong nation. Nelson Mandela said "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
Don't miss out on the opportunity to be the change you want to see in this country. Make use of your democratic right to vote and influence the way your country is run.
Choose a candidate on a list that you believe has the best interest of St. Maarten at heart, has a vision to achieve this and the individuals to carry it out.
In all your deliberations and pondering of your choices, one thing is certain:
YOU MUST GO OUT AND VOTE!!!!
Silveria Jacobs
