PHILIPSBURG--United People’s party (UP) Member of Parliament (MP) Omar Ottley has voiced concerns about what he says is “an increasing disconnect” among the governing coalition members, which he says prevents them from bringing forward a governing programme.
Ottley said in a press release that despite promises made by the Mercelina II Cabinet to complete the governing programme within three months of taking office – originally setting a deadline for the week of February 28 – the deadline was extended to last week. “However, to date, MPs nor the public have yet to receive any clear direction from the government,” Ottley said in the release.
“The governing programme serves as the strategic blueprint for the coalition, outlining key policies, development plans, and priority projects. The prolonged delay raises questions about whether internal disagreements hinder its completion.”
He said one of the most contentious issues in the coalition is the regulation of lotteries and casinos. According to Ottley, some coalition members have openly advocated shutting down gambling establishments altogether, while others have issued new licences. “This stark contrast in policy approaches has caused unease within the coalition, particularly regarding how these licences were granted and the apparent increase in casinos, which has displeased certain coalition partners,” he said.
He said another significant point of contention is the debate over implementing a national healthcare programme. Ottley notes that members of the coalition have taken fundamentally opposite stances on this issue. While some strongly support establishing a national healthcare system, others vehemently oppose it. “This lack of consensus on such a critical matter raises concerns about whether the government can effectively execute long-term healthcare policies that benefit the people of St. Maarten,” he said.
Ottley underscores that the continued postponement of the governing programme raises an essential question: “Does this delay indicate deeper fractures within the coalition that prevent a unified vision for St. Maarten’s future?”
Ottley urges the government to address these internal differences and ensure that the governing programme is presented to Parliament without further delay. He remains committed to holding the government accountable and ensuring that the people of St. Maarten receive clear and decisive leadership.
