Curaçao Parliament President Charetti America-Francisca’s concern about a toxic political climate (see Thursday paper) is shared by many not just there, but in a lot of places including the US and the Netherlands. Polarisation appears to be on the rise practically worldwide.
St. Maarten may not seem so bad in that sense, but with elections next January it is good to reflect on this issue. Partly due to the advent of social media and related pressure on more traditional news outlets, divisive rather than unifying politics are now pretty much the rule.
There tends to be more appetite for one extreme view or the other and ever less middle ground in the public debate. Consequently, sound and effective management of the people’s affairs that requires continuity is increasingly difficult to achieve.
What those running for office must always keep in mind is their obligation to act in the general interest and not just that of some like party supporters. On the other hand, voters too need to understand that their choice at the polls does not entitle them to any special consideration or demands, let alone preferential treatment.
All three Dutch Caribbean countries including Aruba are currently facing major challenges particularly of a financial nature. It’s important that their elected representatives work together to address these as best possible under the circumstances.
The ability to compromise for the benefit of society should never be allowed to become a lost art.
