COCI representatives handing over the proposed decree to TEATT Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten.
PHILIPSBURG--The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry (COCI) has submitted a proposed National Decree Containing General Measures LBHAM to introduce electronic voting, with the aim of making its elections more accessible and strengthening participation among registered businesses.
The proposal was submitted to Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication Grisha Heyliger-Marten on November 1.
The proposed decree would regulate the implementation, responsibilities and operational requirements of an electronic voting system following draft amendments to the National Ordinance on the Establishment and Organization of COCI (AB 2013, GT No. 618).
The proposed amendments provide the legal basis for extending voting hours until 3:30pm and introducing electronic voting, while the decree would establish the procedures for implementing the system.
COCI said the initiative is intended to provide businesses with a more transparent, efficient, accessible and user-friendly electoral process that accommodates their demanding schedules.
The Chamber also aims to remove barriers to participation, increase voter participation and strengthen confidence in the integrity and administration of its elections.
The proposal follows COCI’s investment in expanding its policy division, which has strengthened its capacity to conduct legislative research, develop policy solutions and contribute to improving business services, governance and institutional effectiveness.
During the submission ceremony, COCI Board Member Nzinga Lake highlighted the importance of expanding participation within the business community.”Modernising our electoral process means empowering more businesses to participate, strengthening transparency and ensuring every eligible voice has an opportunity to be heard."
Board Member Annuska Friday also highlighted the governance benefits of digital
transformation. “Digital transformation is not just about technology; it is about building trust, strengthening good governance and creating a more efficient and accessible Chamber.”
The Board, under the leadership of President Tamara Leonard, initiated and advanced the proposed legislation as part of its efforts to modernise COCI’s electoral process.
The Chamber said successful implementation would require cooperation among government, Parliament and the private sector.
COCI is calling for a close public-private partnership to support an efficient legislative process and ensure that the country’s legal framework remains aligned with technological developments.
The proposed reforms are also aligned with government’s commitment to transparency and digital innovation, as reflected in the Digital Government Transformation Project (DGTP).
COCI said electronic voting could improve accessibility, increase participation and strengthen operational efficiency while maintaining appropriate oversight, accountability, legal safeguards and transparency.
The electronic voting system will be selected through open and fair procurement processes to ensure accountability, reliability and compliance with established standards. The Chamber also said implementation could create opportunities in compliance, auditing, data oversight, administration and governance.
COCI stressed that the Minister of TEATT will have important responsibilities under the proposed decree and said it looks forward to working closely with the minister and the ministry throughout the legislative process. The Chamber said it remains committed to working with government, Parliament and stakeholders to establish a modern, secure, efficient and accessible electoral system for the business community.
