PHILIPSBURG:---- When the governments of the Netherland and St Maarten fight, it is the citizens of St. Maarten that lose. The Democratic Party advocates that the interests of the citizens of St Maarten should always come first.
As the governments of the Netherlands and St Maarten discuss crime, corruption, transparency and integrity; they should not lose sight of the fact that the interests of the citizens of St Maarten should always remain the priority. The fact that Ministers Plasterk and Richardson seemed to have found a way to ease tensions between the Netherlands and St Maarten is both commendable and reassuring. Now, all efforts should be made to bring these discussions to a rapid and logical conclusion.
The political posturing and showmanship that has transpired over the past several months should not be allowed to marginalize the interests of the citizens of St Maarten. While all the rhetoric and accusations of corruption, nepotism, colonialism, questionable legality, and constitutionality are all understandable topics, the rights of citizens to live in a safe and vibrant community where the people can have trust and confidence in their government should always be the primary goal.
The people of St Maarten deserve an inclusive government that is honorable and clear about how tax payer’s money is being spent; a government that is clear about what are its plans and how resources will be allocated towards achieving these plans; a government that is transparent and accountable for how it purchases goods and services.
The Democratic Party has campaigned for open government and will continue at every opportunity to advocate for an inclusive government with integrity that is transparent, accountable and fiscally responsible. It is a well established fact that the citizens of a country that have an open government are more prosperous and happy
By Emil Lee advisor to the DP
