Dear Editor,
The controversial reinstatement of Hensley Plantijn to a top government position in Sint Maarten has amplified public concerns over the erosion of integrity, transparency, and sound governance within the civil service. Plantijn, previously dismissed by the former government under Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs for non-performance, appealed his dismissal not through an independent or impartial channel, but under a new administration in which he now serves as a legal advisor.
This dual role as both a beneficiary of the appeal and a legal advisor to the very government deciding on his case represents a blatant conflict of interest. By failing to recuse himself, Plantijn compromised the ethical standards expected of public officials and cast doubt on the fairness of the reinstatement process.
The fallout extends beyond Plantijn himself. Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina’s administration is under fire for its growing reputation of opacity, preferential treatment, and failure to uphold the procedures that should govern the public service. His silence on this case, and others like it, has severely damaged his credibility. Instead of defending democratic principles, the government has chosen to shield one of its own — a move that suggests political loyalty is being prioritized over public accountability.
Alarming allegations also point to Plantijn using his current position to marginalize Emilia Thomas-Connor, effectively preventing her from executing her role as Secretary General. Faced with mounting internal pressure, Thomas-Connor ultimately stepped down and moved into the private sector. Such tactics not only undermine professional integrity but also send a chilling message to other civil servants.
This case also highlights a deeper, systemic issue: the performance of many Secretary Generals (SGs) who are critical to the day-to-day functioning of government is not being adequately monitored or evaluated. Several SGs have remained in their posts for years without any formal performance assessment, leading to stagnation in public sector efficiency and accountability. Without proper evaluation mechanisms, poor performance is allowed to persist, further eroding the quality of governance.
Given the serious implications of these developments, many are now calling for the Kingdom Government of the Netherlands to intervene and assess the situation. Reinstating individuals under ethically compromised circumstances, particularly those who misuse their influence for personal or political gain, is not only inappropriate; it is unethical. Without integrity, the machinery of government ceases to serve the people and begins serving only itself. The current trajectory threatens to compromise everything Sint Maarten’s democracy stands for.
Author's name withheld upon request.
