UP PARTY Press Statement

The United People’s (UP) Party faction is very disturbed of current developments related to a Member of Parliament (MP) of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, and who is also a member of the current National Alliance led coalition government.

This development tarnishes the image of Parliament and its MPs.

The people of Sint Maarten are also traumatized by what has transpired. The people are very upset and concerned. This is a dark day in the history of our country.

The allegations are there and there needs to be a speedy and thorough investigation to ascertain what exactly transpired. The allegations of an MP accepting a bribe or whatever took place sheds a very dark cloud on our democracy. Our judicial institutions need to get to the bottom of this in order for integrity to be brought back.

It sends a bad message to investors and others and at the same time damages the image of this young country. It also sends a bad message to our youth. MPs are well paid and should not have to make such choices as has been portrayed in the video.

The integrity of the country is suffering and the integrity of the Government is at stake!

The people want to hear from the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister with respect to this matter.

The UP faction will be calling for an urgent meeting of Parliament to address this developing situation. The UP faction would like to hear the views of the other factions in Parliament, and at the same time, it is an opportunity for the people to also hear what has transpired.

The UP has also been hearing about a second tape concerning another MP with respect to a similar situation.

These developments are not good for the country. The country is on the wrong track and going downhill fast.

Sylvia Meyers

Interim Faction Leader

United People’s (UP) Party

Member of Parliament