Dear Editor,
As a concerned Justice Worker deeply invested in the future of our Ministry of Justice, I feel compelled to address the recent developments surrounding the formation of the proposed new coalition government and its impact on our vital institution. Under the leadership of Minister Lyndon Lewis, we have finally begun to see some progress in addressing the longstanding issues within the Ministry. However, I have serious doubts about the proposed Coalition's commitment to solving the problems that have plagued us for far too long if they honestly intend to put third-time retiree politician and undertaker Frankie Meyers and his team of misfits in charge of the Ministry of Justice.
The appointment of the Ministry of Justice to Franklin Meyers and the SAM political party is a slap in the face of the justice workers. Throughout their campaign, SAM never addressed the critical issues within the Justice Ministry, and no one within the party has the experience or knowledge necessary to tackle the complex challenges we face daily. The Justice Ministry is not a token portfolio to be handed out as a bargaining chip in political negotiations. It is a critical institution that requires leadership with a deep understanding of law enforcement, justice administration, and the unique challenges faced by Justice Workers.
It is disheartening to see the URSM, Democratic Party, and PFP allocate the Ministry of Justice to a party that has shown little to no interest in our struggles. My colleagues and I feel that this decision is a "consolation prize" for SAM, to keep others in the Coalition from voicing their objections rather than a genuine attempt to bring about meaningful change within the Ministry. This is especially disappointing given the URSM's refusal to take on the Ministry themselves, despite their claim of knowledge of the Justice Ministry's challenges and their ability to advocate for real reform by one of their own Parliamentarians.
Sjamira Roseburg, as a prominent attorney and Parliamentarian, would have been a far better choice for Minister of Justice, or is she not willing to take on the role of working for us and is only talking and not interested in action? Her legal expertise, deep understanding of the justice system, and genuine concern for the well-being of Justice Workers make her an ideal candidate for the role. Why are URSM and Prime Minister Mercelina refusing to take the issues of the Ministry of Justice seriously? You cannot use this crucial Ministry as a bargaining chip to prevent the destabilization of the Coalition instead of addressing the justice workers' real needs and the community's security.
Justice Workers are not mere pawns in your political game. We are the backbone of the community, working tirelessly and often at great personal risk to ensure the safety and security of our island.
I hope the people of St. Maarten join us in demanding better for Justice Workers and workers everywhere. The Ministry of Justice is too important to be a consolation prize. We need experienced, committed leadership that prioritizes the needs of Justice Workers and the safety of our entire island. I urge the coalition partners to reconsider their decision and place the Ministry in the hands of those who truly understand its significance and are prepared to make the necessary changes to improve it.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.
Sincerely,
A Concerned Justice Worker
