It became quite clear over the weekend that almost nobody really wants early elections right now, for obvious reasons following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Irma. It is therefore a real pity, in light of both the political crisis and the emergency situation, that efforts to form a national government failed.
By contrast, after the almost equally devastating passage of Hurricane Luis in 1995 the two biggest parties SPA and DP with respectively Vance James Jr. and Sarah Wescot-Williams at the helm did join hands to form the “purple coalition.” This enabled them together with then-Lt. Governor Dennis Richardson and others to guide the Dutch side through the difficult recovery period.
If the motion of no confidence passed against six ministers, the resignation of the William Marlin Cabinet II and subsequent decree to dissolve Parliament cannot be reversed, certainly the timing of the latter ought to be reconsidered. As a matter of fact, the “new majority” now expected to appoint a transitional government should put this demand squarely on the table in its talks with Governor Eugene Holiday.
After all, it is highly unlikely that the usual screening of candidate ministers for the transitional government can be completed in time to take office before what is supposed to be Nomination Day on November 13. A decision must consequently be made before then to postpone going back to the polls for at least six months to a year, allowing the island and its local tourism economy to get somewhat back on track.
Continuing with the electoral schedule announced Friday under the current dire circumstances is nothing short of madness. What’s more, having financial assistance from the Netherlands delayed until January 31 or longer to await the result of yet another vote would be completely irresponsible and downright inhuman.
In a similar dissolution of the legislature situation not too long ago, the relevant term in the law was also extended, first as part of the deal to break the constitutional deadlock and then again – after the fact – by the Marlin Cabinet I. So, it is possible and needs to be done in the general interest of the already-badly-suffering population.
The other thing required is giving the interim government being installed an emergency status to ensure a non-partisan approach towards the rebuilding process. For example, why not have the same experienced Dennis Richardson head a team of professional Ministers that could perhaps include other members of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) committee?
St. Maarten is at a crucial crossroads that will to a large extent determine the people’s quality of life for many years. Only the right choices will do.
