The proposal by President of the St. Maarten Institute of Public Policy Studies Julio Romney to bar Members of Parliament (MPs) from declaring themselves independent (see related story) may not be new, but remains current. With elections an average every two instead of the intended four years since St. Maarten gained autonomous country status per 10-10-10, it seems obvious that political stability should continue to be a priority.
According to the analyst’s white paper, elected representatives would be explicitly prohibited from declaring themselves independent or aligning with another party. Those wishing to leave their legislative faction must surrender their seat to the party.
Legal advice on this matter has been provided in the past, whereby the so-called “free mandate” principle in the Dutch Kingdom’s democratic system played a role. It was argued that elected representatives take a pledge to act in the best general interest and should therefore not be forced to toe the party line.
The other suggestion to elect candidates into office according to their position on the ballot rather than personal votes certainly has merit. It’s already that way in the other two Dutch Caribbean countries Curaçao and Aruba, but was changed in St. Maarten years ago with the so-called “Lynch Law” to enhance democracy.
As Romney pointed out, however, the latter promotes discord and rivalry within the party, and instigates ship-jumping. Considering the collapse of four governments and calling of five snap elections since 2010, he is probably right.
Unlike some, Romney does not see amending the constitution regarding the dissolution of Parliament and ministerial confidence as a solution. These articles allow government to send the legislature home and call an early vote when it loses majority backing.
Equally important is to remember what former Governor Eugene Holiday said at the recent 2025 Governors Symposium Discipline; namely, that maintaining political stability depends on “the discipline and willingness of politicians.” In other words: Any system is as good as its people.
