PHILIPSBURG--Members of St. Maarten Police Force have started a petition to convince Commissioner Carl John to apply for the position of Chief of Police.
The petition was handed around the police department for two days, accompanied by a letter which stated: "The managing of St. Maarten Police Force by our Chief Commissioner Peter de Witte has almost come to an end. The Police Force of St. Maarten has publicly requested anyone who meets the criteria for this function and has any interest in doing so, to apply.
"Our Acting Chief of Police, Commissioner Carl John, who has been part of the management team from the beginning, is quite competent in filling this position. He is a local person and has been spearheading the building of a new organisation.
"If you agree that Commissioner Carl John should apply and take part in the selection process, please sign below. Thank you."
The letter was signed by some 60 police officers of various ranks within two days, as well as civilian staff, and was presented to the Minister of Justice yesterday.
Officers who signed the petition said: "We are not pushing for Mr. John to get the job, but we would like him to apply as we believe he is the right candidate. He has expertise and experience, and his leadership is well respected within the police force. He is a people person who mingles with everybody, but he takes charge when needed," is the opinion of one of the officers.
"He also has a good insight and vision about the direction of the police force. He believes in fairness and honesty, and in educating his staff. He advocates partnership working, and instills in us that the police and the community should be closer to each other, so that the police can serve the public better. 'The public deserves no less' is what he always tells us" is another opinion given about John.
John said in an invited comment: "I am very honoured my workers feel that way about my leadership. I am also grateful to the Minister of Justice for the educational opportunities provided to me to get me to this level in the organisation. I am now seriously considering my options in applying for the job."
John stressed that no matter what decision was taken with regard to who will become the chief, "I feel that there is no superman who can come in, and make this an even better police force. That can only be achieved by a team effort, and I am very willing to be a part of that team."
John said that applying for the post is now a consideration. "I wanted to be sure I was supported. I grew up in this organisation. For any Chief, there are also unpopular decisions that have to be taken. You need to know that your workers are behind you."
Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson stated that he had received the petition, however, he was not in a position to comment. "The decision as to who will be the next
Chief will be taken by an independent committee. It is important that I remain impartial in the process therefore I can't comment, however, I suggest that they hand the petition to Mr. John himself."
