Dear Editor,

Not every single candidate could have captured the hearts of the electorate. But some were predicted to do well, and missed the mark. Realizing this reality, what really went on in the minds of the voters to reject certain candidates, who have contributed significantly to the community? Is it that they were unaware of their work in and out of Parliament, or these contestants just did not appeal to them?

Many may disagree with my choice to highlight two such candidates, who do not get the recognition that is due to them. But a good way to start is to evaluate what they have done to improve the lives of others within the society, prior to postulating themselves. However, the election results on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, painted a completely different picture – a view that warrants analytical revision.

Case in point: I was stunned by the small number of votes that former MP Claudius Buncamper received. Several questions flooded my mind as I tried to substantiate this shortfall, but nothing concrete came to mind. Flashing back: When the MP was elected to Parliament back in 2020, he was a formidable force to tussle with, as he held every minister accountable, whenever they were summoned to Parliament to report to the people.

I would dare say that during his tenure, every minister wished that he was absent that day, because he was well-prepared and ready to challenge any discrepancies regarding their presentations. His counterpunches were well-researched and delivered with a force. Even when the ministers tried to wiggle their way out of some embarrassing situations, he backed up his responses with facts, and their only recourse was to submit to his blunt deliveries.

Unfortunately, half way through his term, he was dismissed, pending the outcome of his court case. But this dilemma did not stop him. He continued his trend of researching and presenting as if he were still an MP. Sadly, the electorate did not consider his efforts to re-elect him to Parliament. On Election Day, a friend called to ask who she should vote for, and he was one of the names that I recommended from a pool of three candidates.

Even though I am not a part of his social media following, his podcasts always pop up on my phone. He detailed each subject with advanced knowledge, passion, confidence, and vigour. Then, he challenged anyone to prove him wrong. These elements kept the viewers engaged, from the beginning to the end, because the information received is like attending a workshop, filled with interesting statistics.

His willingness to share has gained the respect of many, particularly his ex-colleagues at Public Works, who treasure his expertise and do not hesitate to seek his assistance, when needed. It takes a professional to make himself available to members of a team, from which he was discharged.

Another candidate who has been overlooked is MP Hyacinth Richardson, because of his passive mannerism in Parliament. However, there are times when an MP performs poorly in Parliament, but within his community, he demonstrates a completely different persona. It is true that former MP Hyacinth Richardson, sat in Parliament and said nothing for most of the deliberations.

From my observation, he appears to be an extremely shy individual, who has not worked on this weakness that has plagued him over the years. This limitation has suppressed his ability to communicate effectively with his colleagues and the general public, during the parliamentary meetings.

But, on the flip side of his shortcoming, for years, he has committed himself to visit with the constituents on a regular basis and has contributed financially and otherwise, where necessary. It doesn’t matter if it’s weekdays or weekends, his dedication remains the same. Despite the defeat, there aren’t many persons within the community, who can match his kind and compassionate heart.

To both of you: Not every loss is a failure. This bleak circumstance is teaching you to take a diagnostic view of the situation, which will allow you the opportunity to extract the obstacles, and then come back with a transformed mentality.

Joslyn Morton

Dear Editor,

When will the population stop selecting these greedy and unethical politicians to run this country? Since 10-10-10, the country has been spinning in mud, elections after elections. Just like how the in-fighting has destabilized this current coalition in its initial stage, after the January 11 elections, the same behaviour is playing out again.

Isn’t it time that these unprincipled politicians stop making demands, as if they are entitled to an executive position? Following every election, there is this vicious argument and vexation over who got the most votes. What does the amount of votes acquired have to do with becoming a minister? Then, why disrupt the rhythm of a particular ministry, if the minister is working well in that specific function?

For all of the elections that Attorney Richard Gibson Sr., has contested, he has never obtained any substantial amount of votes. Yet, he was appointed to the Executive branch a few years ago, and served as an exemplary finance minister in the NA-led government. His measly votes wasn’t a discussion then. No! His wealth of knowledge and experiences were the essentials that he needed to get the job done.

So, Prime Minister Luc Mercelina, why did you budge under the pressures of MP Richniel Brug, who has demanded that you appoint him because he got more votes than the VSA [Public Health, Social Development and Labor – Ed.] Minister Veronica Jansen-Webster? Prime Minister Luc Mercelina, you have made a terrible mistake! This is the exact scenario that has occurred after the elections in January, which resulted in the resignation of one of your top candidates.

Aren’t you the same prime minister who went on air and criticized the previous government for appointing persons who are not qualified for the job? So, let’s deliberate for a moment. Is MP Richniel Brug more certified for the position than Minister Veronica Jansen-Webster? Or, is it that his votes are more valuable than hers, an element which was never a prerequisite to take up the post as a minister?

Prime Minister Luc Mercelina, this is a very wrong and immature decision, which is verifying that you have very little knowledge and understanding of the functioning of government. Besides, are you confirming that Minister Veronica Jansen-Webster was doing such a bad job that it warrants her to be pushed into parliament? How do you think she feels, when her other colleague ministers stay?

Were you not given the opportunity to learn and grow? So, why can’t Minister Veronica Jansen-Webster do the same? You see that agreement that you signed with PFP, DP, and SAM, that accord is not etched in stone. Be very careful that those 17 days of disruption do not repeat itself. Prime Minister Luc Mercelina, you must always remember to treat people the way you would like them to treat you.

MP Richniel Brug, your action is very shameful, but not surprising, because it was rumored that you made a very itchy comment in the government building when you ran on another party. And, don’t forget in 2017, when one of your tenants found him in a difficult situation to pay his rent, you reminded him that hurricane or no hurricane, he had to pay. From that day, I have a different opinion of you.

Furthermore, MP Richniel Brug, why don’t you come clean with the people and tell them that you wanted to leave the URSM and run on another party? Were you aware of this Prime Minister Luc Mercelina? This is the problem with you dirty politicians that come on air and spew this rhetoric about having integrity.

Every one of you who professed that you have integrity are the ones who don’t have it, because integrity is not what you say, it is an action! And, until the population wake up and start voting for people who say what they mean and mean want they say, we will always be getting these unscrupulous politicians to represent us all the time.

MP Sjamira Roseburg, you too deserve a flack, because you came on air several times preaching about 5-star representation and all that pretence talk. If you so believe in this philosophy, why are you demanding that Prime Minister Luc Marcelina renegotiate his stance to accommodate your family member? Then you want to preach about integrity, MP Sjamira Roseburg? Be very careful what you wish for!

To you, Minister Veronica Jansen-Webster, no matter how much they try to devalue your efforts, I urge you to remain committed to improving the Ministry of VSA, even though the change of guard is imminent. Remember that time is longer than twine, and it always reveals the face of every single one of us.

Joslyn Morton

Dear Editor,

“Mr. X, we appreciated the work that you did during the past schoolyear but unfortunately our budget will not be sufficient to be able to pay your salary for another schoolyear.” Reason given by the head of the schoolboard of the PSVE for not renewing the contract of the Security Council and Guidance Coach of the PSVE in 2007.

When a certain schoolteacher asked Mr. X how did the meeting go and was told what was explained to Mr.X , that schoolteacher replied, “B.S. She told us that Mr. X walked in here like a one man gang, putting order in the place, making the teachers look bad. We told her that the passing percentage went from 57% the year before to 87% that year. and that was the reason Mr, James wanted some one like Mr. X and not to forget that the police only had to come by the school four times while Mr. X there.”

What the sad part of this all is, is that that schoolboard head knew and still knows how valuable that task that Mr. X performed was for the students, the parents and for the teachers. Which is still the case today. Even also after all these years of negative and unacceptable behavior that schoolboard head has not made an effort to encourage the powers that be to have an SC&GC in the schools.

Now this. While growing up in the Village in San Nicolas, Aruba, we used to have a saying “He walk in here like ten Tarzans.” While reading that letter to you on page 35 of the paper of August 26, that saying from years ago in the Village crossed my mind. “Ms Joslyn Morton walked in there like ten Tarzans.” Even though I would have preferred for these types of letters not to be necessary, it is good for the archives. And I don't want to say the same thing in a different way, because it will be messing with the taste and the vigor. This happens when those of us who relinquish our integrity to get things.

Which brings me to this. If, according to I Timothy 6:10, the love of money is the root of ALL evil, and one does his/her utmost to get money no matter how, isn't he/she qualified to be considered evil? I believe that this applies to all who love money.

95% of the streets of St. Maarten have an average of three churches per street. Therefore I believe that I can conclude that more than 90% of the population of St. Maarten believe in God. On our money it tells us “In God we trust” and that “God is with us”. So why are those (you know who you are) who do their utmost to in some form or the other (try to) scam the people of St. Maarten out of their hard-earned money, in order to satisfy their personal greed, surprised that they do not lead/have a peaceful life?

Thanks again to Ms. Morton, she did not insult anyone, nor did she use curse words.

Russell A. Simmons

Dear Editor,

MP Ottley – former Minister of Everything, former Minister of VSA, former Minister on the Council of Ministers of the ruling National Alliance, UPP et al coalition.

Following weeks of utterly ego driven campaigning with a divisive attitude and a determination to continue fostering a detrimental culture of old politics – of free food and drink and useless bacchanal that ceases instantly as soon as the votes are cast – MP Ottley is now ready to put aside political differences and work with anyone. “A unified approach, collaboration” the good MP says. Instead of fostering an approach of social work and truly getting to know the community the MP lamented that this is our culture, as if cultures do not shift and change with the times.

Imagine the insane budget spent on banners, music, food, alcohol, etc., funds that could have been spent on community outreach and education long prior to elections and continuing after. Obviously the money is there, why not use it for good.

But rather the approach is to give some in the community fish instead of teaching them how to fish. Working overtime to maintain the systems of old; the throwing down of governments, and keeping the people in ignorance allows some to reach the highest levels of power.

Just two weeks ago the UPP leader put out an article claiming to want to restructure the Prosecutor’s Office because his colleague and party member was taken in for questioning regarding vote buying. A leader wanting to be the future PM blatantly ignoring the foundation of our constitution “trias politicas” instead of allowing justice to take its course.

Mind you, for years MP Arrindell has engorged himself on the tax payer’s dime while producing literally nothing, not even attempting to. His tenure is a running joke. “The man can read?” “He speaks?!” are ongoing jokes from the populace. He walks into the Parliament Hall 15 minutes before the end of a session, records with his cellphone while others are working and debating, even nods off once in a while, all the while collecting an absurd salary which he has not earned nor is he is competent to earn. All this under the leadership and purview of MP Ottley, and with no shame our dear MP rushed to threaten (as much as he can) the justice system on behalf of this man.

Sir, how can we believe you when your actions not only do not match your words but are detrimental to our very society. A good leader does not undersign incompetence, laziness, greed, and corruption. A good leader runs a clean house and gets his people up to standard, demanding that they work for the people and produce results.

MP Arrindell received 353 votes prior to his arrest, and 89 after. Now if that isn’t an indictment, I don’t know what is.

MP Ottley came in hot as they say, Minister of Everything, who seemingly worked hard and wanted to leave his mark. He had the PR and could have well gone on to 1,000 votes. It was his to take. But mistakes were made – the throwing down of government (whether anyone owns up to it or not), and the ego and desperation that plagued the campaign weeks. Now the man calls for unity, he is ready to unite!

From his press release, “When you govern, you govern based on the similarities and mutual love and respect for the people of St. Maarten,” MP Ottley remarked, encapsulating a spirit of cooperation.

Seriously?! What about “Luc must go!”? Is that a show of mutual love and respect for the people of St. Maarten or cooperation as you say, when our country is at a most vulnerable state? Apparently, elections ain’t over because if this is not the most blatant politricks I have ever seen. MP Ottley does not seems to grasp that cooperation and mutual love and respect for all the people – true leadership skills – cannot be parked aside and then picked up again when convenient.

“Unite,” you say, now that you have lost 108 votes, down to 666 (now I would have called for a recount to add or reduce even by one vote and even I’m not religious).

Silveria and Cloyd lost their cushy positions simply because the vote was not respected, and they refused to sit in opposition and show that they can truly serve the people. And now literally two days after MP Ottley is now reformed, wants unity above all. No sir. I do not believe you.

There is a thing called restitution. You have been measured and found wanting and now you must do the work. Humble yourself, cut out the old-style politics, and work for the people. Be an effective opposition, not undermining and disruptive, but working in concert with the coalition (whomever they may be) for the betterment of the country. Hold them accountable when needed and support them for the good of all when needed. Park the ego and serve your four-year term and show us you truly mean it.

Now to Christopher Emmanuel; the people spoke, in eight months he lost 201 votes. Many Facebook lives and hours of radio did not give what he so wanted. While MP Emmanuel has been one of the loudest voices for many years, no one person can list 5 things he has accomplished and done for the people of SXM. I mean not even one, not one! Yes, we need disruptors sometimes, but disruption followed by actions and forward movement is what is needed, not just disruption for political mileage.

No person should sit in the halls of parliament enriching themselves on the backs of the taxpayers, entitled enough to say, “Well, the CFT gets first-class flights so why shouldn’t I?” Whereas a good, caring leader would say and enact changes so that CFT doesn’t get it and neither does anyone else. Business class it is across the board for MPs and Ministers and economy class for CFT and all the other acronym institutions that are also living too large on tax payers’ dimes! Savings for the country!

But no, while literally crying tears because he loves the people so much, the MP showed his greed and entitlement by demanding his first-class flights while people are in darkness, literally cannot eat, and are sliding further into poverty with every governing term.

What about Parlatino, again the MP defends this; against a critical CFT report that stated US $2.1 mil has been wasted and not one report that we the public can read showing not one, no, not one benefit to the island. But the MP defended Parlatino because this other than IPKO is the only other travel opportunity to gallivant on the taxpayers’ backs while topping up the already absurd earnings with per diem.

Instead, the MP could have been smart, move to cancel Parlatino and take those funds and pay Carl and Sons to carry out a school feeding program so that children are not going to school hungry, impeding their ability to learn. And if US$2.1 mil is not enough, then add the savings from the cancelled first-class flights. But no, that would have been working for the people, showing love by actions. But alas these are not the type of leaders we have, earning their keep.

The people have spoken and now MP Emmanuel is campaigning for Lyndon Lewis to be Minister of Justice, because the MP loves his people so much. Definitely not because this is the only way the MP will get back to living high on the hog with first class flights and big-time salary.

This is why we need to also vote to elect ministers; individuals with no party affiliation postulating themselves on their competence and experience so there can be no political maneuvering for positions not earned, no confusion among the general public, and no undue involvement and influence because an MP thinks he owns a minister.

While following an election it is the norm and really the hope of everyone that politicians concede when it is clear they have lost, and also pledge to work with the winners, the statement by these two leaders, though hitting the right notes in an ideal world, reek of being self-serving and simply good PR. It is no accident when someone in a small voting population like ours loses more than 200 votes, especially when an almost newcomer to your party receives double your votes. It is no accident but simply the choice of the people.

With the resounding mandate given to Dr. Mercelina, the people were clear. Punish those who attempted to disrupt the government after 17 days and remove those who the people felt were not working in their best interest.

Persons are now calling for Lyndon Lewis to be appointed as Minister of Justice, underscoring how important it is not only to change this electoral system but to also educate the public. Mr. Lewis did not run for the position of Justice Minister, he contested the Parliamentary elections and won his seat. It is up to him to now use that opportunity to serve the people. If he wants to be part of the ruling coalition, it would be apt that he becomes an independent member and give an even bigger majority to the future ruling coalition.

Convicted criminal Chanel Brownbill and now alleged vote buyer Akeem Arrindell broke away from the US Party and as independent MPs shored up the last ruling coalition ensuring a four-year stability; why not a much lauded Minister of Justice doing the same now if invited to.

If URSM leads the new coalition, why would Dr. Luc open the door for Christopher Emmanuel; the same Emmanuel who basically called the PM a liar as little as three weeks ago and in the span of a few months could not work with his own coalition. This is who he is, does not play well with others, and that will not change soon, no matter how many seemingly good videos are posted. Whoever the ruling coalition is would do well to leave well alone and go with the choice of the people, the choice of Parliamentarians who were voted in.

Now I write this all not knowing who will be part of the ruling coalition, including these two MPs. But let’s see how the cookie crumbles; ’tis St. Maarten politics after all.

Name withheld at author’s request.