The latest political developments require all involved to keep a cool head. For one thing, the issue with the early election date and related deadlines is reportedly being addressed.
Concern in The Hague (see related story) about the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Irma with, among other things, the Dutch-sponsored Trust Fund managed by the World Bank and liquidity support is understandable in view of statements made by most Members of Parliament (MPs) that have now formed a new majority.
However, the proof of pudding is in the eating and it will be interesting to see what positions the still-to-be-appointed interim cabinet backed by them takes in practice on the various issues at hand. It’s not uncommon for governments installed by opposition parties to have a more pragmatic approach once in office than the rhetoric often accompanying a change in government would lead one to believe.
Before any of that happens, the prospective next ministers will need to be screened. Meanwhile, the outgoing Romeo-Marlin Cabinet with caretaker status is expected to continue implementing existing agreements and projects, despite two of its five members having been asked by the incoming coalition to leave immediately.
State Secretary of Home Affairs and Kingdom Relations Raymond Knops could also help diffuse the building tension by, for example, not constantly repeating that St. Maarten’s MPs must take a pay cut for the financial assistance to continue. It had already been pointed out by former President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams that this would require a two-thirds majority and she had suggested alternative cost cuts for the legislature that would have the same budgetary effect.
Especially under the current circumstances, it’s the people – and not so much politicians – who ultimately stand to lose most from a serious conflict between The Hague and Philipsburg. Preventing that should be everybody’s priority.
