PHILIPSBURG:--- In a distinct warning regarding the current state of St. Maarten, Member of Parliament and Leader of the United People’s Party, Omar E C Ottley has expressed grave concerns over the escalating crises in the country. In a recent statement, Ottley highlighted the alarming rise in crime rates, the deterioration of healthcare services, and the lack of attention to mental health, no budget for job fairs, stagnation of our education system and numerous VROMI court cases.
“The current leadership is leading St. Maarten to the verge of a crisis,” said Ottley. “The cry of the previous government is that it can no longer be used as an excuse, as the majority of the Council of Ministers have now held their positions for over a year and no viable progress has been made to date. Immediate action is necessary.”
The MP pointed out that the absence of a 2025 national budget has left the government unable to execute major projects and activities, including vital salaries for police staff who are already over worked yet, underpaid and understaffed. This budgetary void has resulted in significant challenges for law enforcement, threatening the safety of our communities.
The Committee for Financial Supervision (CFT) recently reported that St. Maarten has no viable means to repay its loans, putting the nation in a precarious financial position. Moreover, the government’s obligations stemming from the Ennia saga, in which St. Maarten was forced to accommodate mostly Curacao, have plunged the country into deeper debt.
The numerous court cases stemming from the actions of the current Minister of VROMI is also adding to the financial strains of Government. The manner in which this Government is hindering locals from the opportunity to acquire Government land, is not only stagnating progress but echoes on the lack of vision within the Ministry of VROMI.
Ottley also expressed concern over the future of Mullet Bay, following statements from the newly elected Curacao’s Prime Minister indicating intention to claim the land.
Education in St. Maarten seems to be in a state of stagnation, with no progress being observed in neither curriculums nor the Ministry. “Our children’s future is at stake, and we must act now to ensure that they receive the quality education they deserve,” said Ottley.