Petition for Electoral Reform and Enhanced Governance Measures in Sint Maarten

To: The Government of Sint Maarten
Cc: Governor of Sint Maarten

Cc: Prime Minister of Sint Maarten
Cc: Council of Ministers 

Cc: Members of Parliament 
Cc: Dutch Caribbean Authorities

Cc: Ombudsman of Sint Maarten

 

Subject: Urgent Call for Electoral Reform and Enhanced Governance Measures

 

Dear Leaders and Caretakers of Sint Maarten,

We, the residents and concerned citizens of Sint Maarten, are writing to express our urgent concern regarding the current state of governance and public safety on our island. We believe that immediate and substantive changes are necessary to ensure that our government is composed of individuals who are not only experienced and capable but also mentally stable and deeply committed to the welfare of Sint Maarten. The upcoming 2024 snap elections should be postponed until all candidates have provided the below.

To address these pressing issues, we propose the following reforms:

Eligibility for Public Office:

• Residency Requirement: All individuals running for public office must be citizens of Sint Maarten who have been residents for a minimum of 15 years leading up to the day of their candidacy submission. This ensures that candidates have a deep understanding of, contribution to and commitment to our island.

 

• Professional and Personal Qualifications:
  Resume Submission: All candidates must submit a detailed resume outlining their relevant professional experience. This requirement will ensure that candidates possess the necessary skills and qualifications to effectively serve in public office.

 

• Mental Health Evaluation: Candidates must undergo a comprehensive mental health evaluation conducted by three independent doctors: one locally, one from the Netherlands (NLD), and one from a neighboring Dutch Caribbean island - who has qualified certifications and normally is a point of reference in legal cases. This measure will help prevent individuals with unstable mental health from holding positions of significant responsibility.

 

• Professional References: All candidates must provide 5 professional references that will be verified by the Governor's Cabinet. This verification process will help ascertain the credibility and reliability of the candidates - including but not limited to bank, notaries, landlords, business partners, tax officer.

 

• Tax Filings and Proof of Income: Candidates must submit their tax filings, proof of payments and proof of income for review before being allowed to run for office. This will ensure transparency and accountability in financial matters.

 

We believe these reforms are essential for safeguarding the integrity of our government and the safety of our community. These requirements must be submitted 1 year leading up to desired postulation day to ensure that the required bodies have enough time to verify the submitted documents. These documents must be verified by the electoral council and the ombudsman to safeguard the well being and stability of the island.

The current state of instability and the influence of unstable individuals in running for public positions are compromising the well-being of Sint Maarten's residents. By implementing these measures, we can restore trust in our institutions and ensure that our leaders are both qualified and dedicated to serving our island effectively.

We respectfully urge you to consider these proposed reforms and take immediate action to implement them to safe guard the integrity and stability of this island. The future of Sint Maarten depends on having a government that is both stable and competent. We hope that you will support these necessary changes for the betterment of our island and its people.

Sincerely,

The People of Sint Maarten