PHILIPSBURG:--- Governor Ajamu Baly has officially signed the Landsbesluit (LB) to suspend Sueana Laville-Martis, the Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA). This administrative move was heavily driven by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, who brought forward several serious allegations against the Chief of Staff.

The allegations claim that Laville-Martis advised the Minister to grant a consultancy contract to her husband, Romaine Laville. Additionally, accusations suggest that Laville-Martis misused a government credit card to purchase personal items, including a therapeutic chair.

Highly questionable financial claims have also surfaced in connection with this situation. Large invoices were reportedly submitted for Romaine Laville’s consultancy fees. Initially, these invoices hovered just below the CG 50,000 cap, though the amounts fluctuated over time. During a last week meeting, the Prime Minister presented these claims to the Council of Ministers, reading the allegations aloud. However, no concrete evidence was provided to the Council, leading to questions about the Prime Minister's motives.

The Council of Ministers questioned why the Prime Minister failed to inform them of these allegations from the outset, instead of framing the situation as a so-called threat against him. With the LB now officially signed, the political implications of this suspension continue to grow. Speculation persists as to whether this action signals a motion of no confidence in Minister Richinel Brug, initiated by his own party leader and Prime Minister.

PHILIPSBURG:---  In a shocking display of political overreach and administrative chaos, the Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Sueana Laville-Martis, has been banned from government premises for the second time. This latest move, orchestrated by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, reeks of personal vendettas and a blatant disregard for legal and ethical governance.

The timing of this ban is as suspicious as it is strategic. Minister Richinel Brug, who has been vocal in his opposition to the Prime Minister’s actions, was conveniently off island when the directive was issued. Upon his return, the Minister has reportedly expressed his disapproval, citing the Prime Minister’s failure to respect a court verdict that had already ruled against such measures.

A Pattern of Abuse

This is not the first time Laville-Martis has been targeted. Earlier this year, the Prime Minister banned her from government buildings and IT systems, a move the courts later struck down. The judiciary ruled that such actions were not only unauthorized but also a gross violation of civil service laws. Yet, despite this legal rebuke, the Prime Minister has doubled down, using other allegations of "conflict of interest" to justify his actions.

The so-called "conflict of interest" stems from Laville-Martis allegedly signing off on advice and contracts involving her husband, Romain Laville. However, sources close to the matter have confirmed that all procedures were properly vetted, with every "T" crossed and "I" dotted. However, SMN News learned that this is contrary to several verbal warnings given to the Chief of Staff and to her actions regarding her husband's job description.  In stark contrast, the Prime Minister and President of the URSM board are embroiled in multiple allegations of conflicts of interest, including questionable dealings with GEBE, catering contracts, and board appointments.

A Government Disarray

The Council of Ministers, under the Prime Minister’s leadership, has been accused of operating on personal whims rather than legal principles. The recent court ruling in favor of Laville-Martis highlighted the government’s procedural failures and lack of authority in imposing such bans. The judiciary’s scathing verdict declared the actions of the Council of Ministers null and void, exposing a government that seems more interested in settling personal scores than serving the public.

Adding to the chaos, the Prime Minister reportedly presented his case to the Council of Ministers last Tuesday without any supporting documents, relying solely on his verbal account. This lack of transparency and accountability raises serious questions about the integrity of the decision-making process at the highest levels of government.

The Bigger Picture

This latest episode is part of a broader pattern of governance failures under the current administration. Allegations of unethical practices, including the Prime Minister’s ties to questionable board appointments and financial dealings, have cast a long shadow over his leadership. Meanwhile, the Lavilles, despite being targeted, have maintained their stance. Sueana Laville-Martis, a civil servant with 14 years of unblemished service, and Romain Laville, known for his straightforward demeanor, have emerged as symbols of resilience in the face of political persecution.

What’s Next?

The public and stakeholders are demanding answers. Is Laville-Martis officially suspended or merely banned? What are the legal grounds for these actions, and why is the Prime Minister so intent on sidelining a civil servant who has already been vindicated by the courts? More importantly, who will hold the Prime Minister accountable for his own alleged conflicts of interest and governance failures?

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the Lavilles are not backing down, and neither is the public’s demand for justice and transparency. The Prime Minister and his administration must answer for their actions, not just to the courts but to the people they are supposed to serve.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) hereby informs the public that its Arrest Team carried out an early morning operation on Tuesday, resulting in the arrest of three individuals in connection with the shooting incident that occurred on February 12, 2026, in the South Reward area.

Two of the suspects were arrested for their direct involvement in the shooting, while a third individual was taken into custody for possession of narcotics.

This investigation is currently being conducted by the Detective Department of KPSM.

As part of the ongoing investigation, house searches were conducted at multiple locations. These actions are part of KPSM’s ongoing efforts to address and combat serious criminal activity in the community.

Due to the sensitive nature of this case and in the interest of the investigation, no further details will be disclosed at this time.

KPSM remains committed to ensuring public safety and urges anyone with information related to this or any other case to call +1721-54222 or the tip line at 9300.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is preparing for one of the first official Carnival 2026 activities, the “Causeway Jump-Up,” scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, beginning at 8:00 PM. This highly anticipated event is expected to attract large crowds, and KPSM is committed to ensuring a safe and orderly environment for all participants and spectators.

This event will follow a designated route starting from Simpson Bay (Welfare Road – Kim Sha area), continuing onto Airport Road, crossing the Causeway Bridge, proceeding along Union Road (Cole Bay), and returning to the Kim Sha area.

As with previous years, KPSM will have a strong police presence along the route to ensure the safety and security of all participants and spectators. The cooperation of the public remains essential in maintaining a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

KPSM wishes to emphasize the following important safety measures:

• Face Coverings Prohibited:
  Individuals are strictly prohibited from wearing masks that conceal their identity, including balaclavas and ski masks. Officers will take action against anyone found in violation of this measure.
• Vendor Guidelines:
  Vendors operating along the route are reminded that beverages must not be sold in glass bottles. All drinks should be served in plastic cups or other safe containers to prevent injuries and enhance public safety.

KPSM urges all attendees to act responsibly, comply with all instructions given by law enforcement officers, and look out for one another during the festivities.

The Police Force remains committed to ensuring that Carnival 2026 is celebrated in a safe, orderly, and enjoyable manner for all.