PHILIPSBURG:--- The dramatic parliamentary vote on a motion of disapproval against Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina not only sent a warning shot to the current administration but also exposed a significant fracture within the Party for Progress (PFP) faction. In a move that signals a deep internal divide, PFP faction leader MP Raeyhon Peterson voted in favor of the motion, while his colleague, MP Ludmilla de Weever, voted against it, siding with the coalition to save the Prime Minister from censure.
The session, called to address the government's handling of the crisis facing fire and ambulance personnel, became a defining moment for the PFP. MP Peterson took a hardline stance, aligning with the opposition to formally disapprove of the Prime Minister’s leadership on the issue. His vote was a clear declaration of his dissatisfaction with the administration's performance and its failure to resolve the long-standing grievances of the nation's emergency responders. This move positioned him as a staunch critic of the government's current path, reflecting a belief that strong political action was immediately necessary.
In stark contrast, MP Ludmilla de Weever broke ranks with her faction leader. Despite publicly stating during the debate that she holds a "soft spot in her heart" for the firefighters, her vote ultimately helped defeat the motion. Her decision suggests a different political calculation, prioritizing government stability or perhaps disagreeing with the confrontational tactic of a disapproval motion at this time. While her words expressed empathy for the workers' struggles, her actions provided a crucial vote that protected the Prime Minister, highlighting a fundamental disagreement with her faction leader on how to hold the government accountable.
This public split reveals more than just a difference of opinion; it points to a potential ideological rift within the PFP. One member, the faction leader, saw the moment as a critical juncture requiring a formal rebuke of the government. The other saw it as a time for a different approach, even if it meant appearing to contradict her stated sympathies for the emergency personnel. This divergence in strategy raises questions about the party's unified vision and its role as a political force.
For the PFP, the implications are significant. The split vote weakens its image as a cohesive unit and could complicate its political maneuvering moving forward. As the crisis with emergency services continues to unfold, the party will need to reconcile these differing approaches to effectively advocate for solutions. The division between Peterson’s hardline opposition and de Weever’s more measured, coalition-aligned vote leaves voters and political observers questioning the PFP's internal strength and its ultimate direction in the turbulent political landscape.
Parliament in Turmoil as Motion Against Prime Minister Fails Amid Accusations and Political Grandstanding.
PHILIPSBURG – A contentious parliamentary session on Wednesday exposed deep fractures within the government, culminating in a failed motion of disapproval against Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina. While the Prime Minister narrowly survived the vote, the heated debate laid bare the administration's chaotic handling of a mounting crisis involving the nation's fire and ambulance personnel, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and bitter accusations.
The meeting, ostensibly called to address the escalating situation with emergency services, quickly devolved into a political battlefield. Opposition members, fed up with what they see as inaction and disrespect, launched a full-scale assault on the Prime Minister's leadership.
The tension was palpable as Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis took the floor and directly challenged the Prime Minister's integrity. He pointedly referenced a recent press release from the Prime Minister, stating that such behavior from an MP "is a disgrace." The comment highlighted growing animosity between the executive and legislative branches, suggesting a government at war with itself while critical services remain in jeopardy.
The disarray within the Council of Ministers was further exposed by MP Omar Ottley, who questioned the "apparent disconnect" between the Minister of VSA's supposed willingness to negotiate with unions and a hardline letter from the Prime Minister. This contradiction suggests a disjointed administration where one hand does not know what the other is doing. MP Francisco Lacroes echoed this sentiment, asking whether the Minister of VSA was part of the decision-making process, casting further doubt on the government's coherence.
In his defense, Prime Minister Mercelina dismissed the entire affair as a political stunt. He claimed the motion was "not substantiated by facts and gives the impression of being politically motivated," arguing that it was drafted before his answers were even considered. This defense, however, did little to quell the outrage from those who feel the government has abandoned its civil servants.
MP Lacroes back, clarifying that the motion had "nothing to do with the civil servants themselves but the support that the civil servants have received and are getting." The message was clear: this is a crisis of leadership, not a critique of the dedicated first responders.
Though the motion ultimately failed to carry, the victory for the Prime Minister is hollow. The proceedings have placed an intense spotlight on his administration's inability to provide tangible solutions for the very people tasked with ensuring public safety. The session ended not with a resolution, but with a weak proposal for yet another explanation from a "technical team." For the firefighters and ambulance personnel, this offers little more than continued delays and political theater. The pressure is now immense, and the public is left wondering whether this government is capable of leading or will continue to crumble under the weight of its own dysfunction.
Opposition MPs sends Clear Warning to PM Mercelina Despite Failed Motion of Disapproval.
PHILIPSBURG: --- A motion of disapproval tabled in Parliament today failed to secure a majority, but the political maneuvering behind the vote has sent an unmistakable signal to the government. While Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina survived the challenge, the debate underscored growing frustration over unresolved issues plaguing the country’s emergency services.
The final tally saw five Members of Parliament voting in favor of the motion, seven voting against, and three MPs absent from the proceedings.
Coalition Unity Holds, But Pressure Mounts
The seven MPs supporting the current coalition government stood united, voting en bloc against the motion. This solidarity effectively shielded the Prime Minister from a formal reprimand. However, political observers note that this victory is largely symbolic. The heated debate preceding the vote made it clear that patience is wearing thin regarding the working conditions of firefighters and ambulance personnel.
The message delivered to Dr. Mercelina was direct: get your act together. The issues facing emergency responders—ranging from equipment shortages to operational concerns—can no longer be sidelined. While the coalition protected its leader today, the underlying grievances remain a potent political liability.
A House Divided: The PFP Split
One of the most notable developments of the session was the visible rift within the Party for Progress (PFP) faction. PFP faction leader MP Peterson cast his vote in favor of the motion, signaling a hardline stance against the government's handling of the crisis.
In a surprising turn, fellow PFP member MP Ludmilla de Weever broke with her leader to vote against the motion. This decision came despite her public proclamation during the debate that she holds a "soft spot in her heart" for the firefighters. Her vote against the disapproval motion suggests a preference for giving the government more time or perhaps a disagreement with the mechanism of a disapproval motion itself, even while acknowledging the validity of the workers' struggles.
Implications for Emergency Services
The failure of the motion does not close the book on the crisis facing St. Maarten’s first responders. If anything, it places a brighter spotlight on the Prime Minister's office. With the political opposition demonstrating their willingness to escalate matters to a vote of disapproval, the pressure is now squarely on the executive branch to deliver tangible solutions.
For the firefighters and ambulance workers watching from the sidelines, the political drama offers little immediate relief. However, the parliamentary session has forced their plight to the top of the national agenda. The seven coalition votes may have saved the Prime Minister today, but they came with an implicit condition: the situation must improve quickly.
As the dust settles on today's vote, the focus shifts back to the government administration building. The ball is now in Dr. Mercelina's court to prove that the confidence shown by the seven coalition MPs was well-placed and to resolve the critical issues threatening the safety and stability of the island's emergency services.
Academy Showcases CAPE Opportunities for Future Scholars.
Cul de Sac:--- St. Maarten Academy on Friday last opened its doors to all high school students and educators to showcase exciting opportunities they can experience through the school’s Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) Programme.
The CAPE Open House highlighted the various Caribbean Associate degree programmes offered by its Sixth Form division, thereby bridging the gap between secondary education and higher learning.
The event aimed to expose students and their parents not only to the CAPE structure and curriculum, but also to the school’s internal framework, which redefines the acronym CAPE to reflect its core mission: CARE for students and their future success, AFFORDABILITY in access to quality education, PRODUCTION of outstanding academic outcomes, and a commitment to EXCELLENCE in all areas, explained CAPE Coordinator, Mrs. Doreen Edwards Mac Intosh.
With its focus on providing an affordable and high-quality pathway to academic success, the event highlighted the programme’s ongoing assurance to empower the next generation of scholars. This empowerment, stated Principal Kim Lucas-Felix, is not an idle boast, as the results year after year speak for themselves.
“Under the leadership of Mrs. Edwards MacIntosh, we have seen an exponential increase in the number of students who are making the Regional CXC Merit list. We know that this is no easy feat when students of the St. Maarten Academy CAPE Programme are placed in the top ten at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations from among thousands of students across the region. So anyone who chooses CAPE is definitely choosing quality education that can put them in great standing at any university of their choice,” Mrs. Lucas-Felix stated.
Invitations were extended to all local schools offering the CSEC programme, and Milton Peters College (MPC) led the way with a delegation of 48 attendees, including 4th- and 5th-form students and their teachers. Students from Forms 3 - 5 at St. Maarten Academy also participated, gaining valuable insight into the opportunities the CAPE 6th Form Programme offers.
The Open House featured lively, interactive engagement. Visitors didn’t just observe; they participated. The event featured subject displays led by teachers and current students, showcasing key aspects of the curriculum. Current CAPE 6th Formers served as campus guides and co-presenters, sharing their experiences and enthusiasm with younger students.
Vice Principal Ms. Joanna Trim opened the proceedings with a warm welcome, setting the tone for the day, while Mrs. Edwards Mac Intosh gave informative presentations, outlining the programme’s structure, benefits, and record of excellence. Mrs. Shameda Delaney-Weekes, the school’s Career Guidance Counselor, also played a vital role in ensuring the event’s smooth and successful execution.
“The excitement and curiosity from the students and some of our teachers were truly inspiring,” said Mrs. Edwards MacIntosh. “It was equally encouraging to see parents showing genuine interest in their children’s academic futures. Their engagement reminds us why we continue to strive for excellence each year.”
While organizers noted lower-than-anticipated parent turnout, students' enthusiasm and engagement made the day a resounding success.
The CAPE 6th Form Programme continues to welcome inquiries from parents and the wider community, encouraging all to discover how the programme upholds its motto, “Choose Excellence!” Students who have completed their fifth form year of high school can apply to the CAPE Programme via our school website https://www.stmaartenacademy.com/cape
KPSM Strengthens Youth Engagement Through School Visits.
PHILIPSBURG:--- As part of its ongoing efforts to engage positively with Sint Maarten's youth, the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) has visited several schools over the past few weeks to connect with students, raise awareness, and promote education.
On January 28, 2026, officers from the KPSM Traffic Department visited Sister Magda Primary School. During this visit, officers shared important information on traffic rules, general road safety, and helped prepare students for their upcoming traffic examinations.
KPSM believes that early education and positive interaction are key to building responsible road users and strengthening trust between the police and the community.
KPSM takes this opportunity to thank the management of Sister Magda Primary School and the officers who participated in these meaningful engagements with the youth.