"It is with profound shock and sadness that I learned of the senseless killing of Curacao's politician, Pueblo Soberano's (PS) leader, Mr. Helmin Wiels. Firstly I would like to express my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Helmin and the PS membership and wish them much strength and courage in these most trying of times.
To the people of Curacao, I would also like to extend my condolences and wish you courage, strength and God's wisdom. Although we are no longer part of the same country, our culture and history are so entwined that I indeed speak for the people of St. Maarten in saying that we are all deeply shocked and affected by this tragic and horrible event.
I would like to echo what has already been said by colleagues in Curacao in saying that I too am praying for calm and reflection. Although I know the people of Curacao are momentarily grieving, I urge you to come together in your grief and uphold the principles we all hold so dear; the principles of an open democracy and the right of freedom of speech.
We should now let justice take its course, and trust that those responsible for this heinous act, will be brought to justice. Let us uphold the memory of Helmin Wiels and what he stood for. Let us remember him for the man that he was. Let us all come together, as Caribbean neighbors and support the people of Curacao in this most trying and difficult time."
From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister
