Saint Martin:--- On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Louis Mussington, President of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, was questioned by the gendarmerie as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of public fund mismanagement. The interrogation, which lasted the entire day, stems from a procedure initiated in 2023 following a letter sent by four opposition members to the public prosecutor. The letter raised concerns about the recruitment practices for several positions within the Collectivité.
In an official statement released on Friday, January 16, President Mussington confirmed his participation in the scheduled hearing. He emphasized his commitment to transparency and his willingness to cooperate fully with investigators. "This procedure is ongoing, and it is not possible at this stage to delve into the details of the elements being examined," he stated. He also reaffirmed the Collectivité's dedication to serving the population while adhering strictly to public service regulations and the rule of law.
Investigation Details
The prosecutor's office in Basse-Terre confirmed that President Mussington was placed in police custody during the questioning on January 14. The investigation focuses on allegations of public funds mismanagement, particularly concerning the hiring of individuals reportedly close to the President since his election in 2022. The prosecutor's office clarified that no decisions have been made yet, as the investigation remains ongoing.
While President Mussington's custody was lifted on Wednesday evening, the prosecutor's office acknowledged that additional cases are under review. These cases are reportedly linked to the same 2023 letter from opposition members, which highlighted potential irregularities in recruitment practices.
President Mussington’s Response
In his official communiqué, President Mussington reiterated his respect for the institutions and his commitment to transparency. "I remain fully prepared to answer all the investigators' questions in a spirit of transparency and absolute respect for the institutions," he stated. He also reassured the public that the Collectivité of Saint-Martin continues its work in service of the population, operating within the framework of public service laws and regulations.
Broader Implications
This investigation marks a significant moment for the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, as it raises questions about governance and accountability within the administration. The outcome of the investigation could have far-reaching implications for the leadership of the Collectivité and its operations.
As the investigation progresses, the public awaits further updates from the prosecutor's office and the Collectivité. For now, President Mussington remains steadfast in his commitment to transparency and cooperation, while the Collectivité continues its mission to serve the people of Saint-Martin.