PHILIPSBURG—Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten on Wednesday addressed growing calls for her resignation, stating that she remains committed to serving the people of St. Maarten “with integrity, diligence and full adherence to the governing accord and the laws of this country.”
Her statement came one day after United People’s party (UP) Member of Parliament (MP) Francisco Lacroes called for her immediate resignation, citing a “direct conflict of interest” and a “threat to public trust” following a $92 million liability verdict for her husband in a civil case while she remains in office.
Heyliger-Marten said she had undergone the required legal screening before assuming her ministerial post and that the legal matters involving her husband had been fully considered during that process.
“I want to let the public know that I was elected by the people of St. Maarten and subsequently appointed to serve following a comprehensive legally mandated screening process. At the time of this appointment, the circumstances surrounding my husband—indeed my husband’s legal matters—were well known and duly considered while going through the screening,” she said.
“Since I’ve taken office, I’ve remained steadfast in my duties, serving the people of St. Maarten with integrity, diligence and full adherence to the governing accord and the laws of this country. Out of respect for due process and the independence of the judiciary, I will not comment on any ongoing legal proceedings. However, I trust that the legal system will handle these matters fairly and professionally,” Heyliger-Marten stated.
She added that the civil case in question will be appealed. “It is important to note that the civil case in question will be appealed, therefore drawing conclusions nor making any assumptions at this stage would be premature,” she said.
Heyliger-Marten emphasized that she remains “fully committed to fulfilling my mandate and continuing the work entrusted to me by the people and the government of St. Maarten, guided by transparency, accountability and service to the nation. My dedication to serving this country has never wavered regardless of my personal circumstance, and I will continue to perform my duties with the same focus and commitment that I have demonstrated day by day.”
On Tuesday, MP Lacroes said the matter represents a fundamental test of government’s integrity and public confidence. “These are not trivial accusations,” he stated. “They strike at the heart of public trust and the rule of law.”
He argued that Heyliger-Marten’s continued role as minister while such “grave allegations” remain unresolved “constitutes a direct conflict of interest and erodes confidence in government and in extension Parliament.”
“This is not a personal attack,” Lacroes said. “This is an unwavering stand for principled leadership and true accountability.”
Lacroes added that he had formally requested solicited advice from the Social Economic Council (SER) “on whether this is a sound, healthy investment for both foreigners and locals alike.”
He concluded by urging swift action to restore integrity in public office. “Let us show the people of St. Maarten and the world that our nation values good governance above all else.”
