Sint Maarten’s 16th anniversary as a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands brought a range of Constitution Day messages reflecting on the achievements and unfinished work since 10-10-10.
Finance Minister Marinka Gumbs emphasized resilience, stronger public finances, infrastructure, education and economic diversification, while calling for unity and responsible leadership.
President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams focused on Sint Maarten’s constitutional future, calling for a factual “balance sheet” on the benefits and consequences of remaining within or leaving the Kingdom. She also highlighted her proposed Referendum Ordinance, intended to create a legal framework for future referendums.
TEATT Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten, who said she voted for independence in 2000, questioned whether the current governing structure is delivering sufficient stability and called for renewed electoral and constitutional reform.
MP Sjamira Roseburg stressed affordability, stronger consumer protections and greater equality within Kingdom relations, while MP Lyndon Lewis called for accountability, unity and greater attention to mental health.
Across the messages, leaders agreed that sixteen years of country status should be both a celebration and a moment to assess Sint Maarten’s future.