News that Member of Parliament (MP) Silvio Matser had been detained spread like wildfire Wednesday, as the coalition member’s absence also led to postponement of the 2016 budget debate. The arrest and related searches of his home and office
are part of the “Octopus” investigation into vote-buying and two other suspects were held too.
There appeared to be some initial confusion, as the Constitution requires approval from the Court for such searches when it regards an elected representative. However, permission was granted quickly at the request of the Prosecutor’s Office so that the operation could continue.
It’s important to point out that this probe is not known to have anything to do with Matser’s earlier conviction for tax evasion, which he has appealed. That allows him to remain in the legislature, as would also still be the case even under arrest until it officially became a pre-trial detention and he is suspended.
Readers will recall the latter never happened with former parliamentarian Patrick Illidge in the Bada Bing scandal, so that he served his full term. Therefore, people must not immediately jump to conclusions about the William Marlin Cabinet losing its majority backing.
The fact is that the governing parties were unable to muster a quorum to complete the handling of the 2016 budget already more than two months into the year. That is not good for St. Maarten, which has been struggling with its public finances ever since gaining country status per 10-10-10.
Some may blame the seven members who were present and failed to sign in so the meeting could continue, but generally speaking that’s how things work in politics. The coalition partners in principle have the first responsibility to facilitate the passing of laws proposed by the government they formed; it’s as simple as that.
Nevertheless, should this uncertain situation persist much longer the opposition, or “Super Seven” as referred to, would do well to reconsider their position. After all, most of them were relatively positive about Finance Minister Richard Gibson’s “shotgun budget.” By now it probably would be in society’s best interest if it’s passed sooner rather than later.
