PHILIPSBURG:--- The Judicial Four-Party Consultation (JVO), a semi-annual meeting hosted by the Ministry of Justice of Sint Maarten, concluded yesterday following three days of intensive dialogue and cooperation among the Minister of Justice and Security of the Netherlands, Mr. Foort van Oosten, the Minister of Justice of Aruba, Mr. Arthur Dowers, the Acting Minister of Justice of Curaçao, Mr. Charles Cooper, and the Minister of Justice of Sint Maarten, Ms. Nathalie Tackling.

The consultation was conducted in a newly revised format, with the deliberate introduction of a strategic session, a full day dedicated to reflection, forward-planning, and open dialogue on shared priorities across the Kingdom.

“This strategic component is something we have consciously introduced into the JVO,” explained Minister Tackling. “It created space for open dialogue on shared priorities and long-term direction. By making room for strategic reflection alongside operational matters, we strengthen coordination, anticipate emerging risks, and ensure that our decisions are not only practical but forward-looking. I am pleased that we have once again committed to developing this strategic component in future JVOs.”

JVO Outcomes

The JVO, held from January 14–16, 2026, which included a series of technical and strategic sessions focused on strengthening Kingdom-wide cooperation in key areas such as detention reform, law enforcement, border management, youth crime prevention, data sharing, and the fight against organized and undermining crime.

Throughout the week, the Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to building a stronger, more coordinated, and robust justice system across the Kingdom. Discussions and decisions centered on practical steps to enhance collaboration and ensure that the justice chain remains resilient and responsive.

Key agreements included the approval of the Judicial Policy Plan for the Caribbean Coast Guard (2026–2029), the renewal of the Taskforce on Detention with an updated mandate and work program, and the adoption of the 2026 Joint Investigation Cooperation Plan and RST Budget Framework (2027–2030) to strengthen investigative coordination. The Ministers also endorsed a regional framework to combat organized and undermining crime, introduced the Judicial Balance Monitor to assess capacity within justice services, and supported a six-pillar plan for youth crime prevention focusing on both early intervention and rehabilitation.

Further progress was made on the modernization of detention and forensic care systems, where countries acknowledged existing capacity limitations but reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration. Additional progress was achieved on the harmonization of data protection and information exchange. Together, these outcomes reflect the Kingdom’s shared commitment to translate dialogue into concrete action and sustainable reform.

The Ministers also endorsed the continuation of the newly introduced strategic session, recognizing that the traditional two-day JVO format, with its extensive agenda, limited opportunities for deeper dialogue. The revised structure introduced a third day dedicated to strategic discussion enabling  the Ministers to focus on selected priority themes, engage in more comprehensive exchanges, and identify practical ways to continue to strengthen cooperation. Curaçao announced that it will host the next JVO from September 1–3, 2026, which will again include space for strategic discussion among the Ministers.

Site Visits and Bilateral Engagements

During JVO week, Minister Foort van Oosten and his delegation joined Minister Tackling for a tour of the Point Blanche Prison, where they met with the Prison Director to discuss challenges. United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS),head of program, William Squier presented an update on the new prison construction, outlining how the project will address long-standing challenges and set new standards for humane and secure detention.

The Dutch Minister also visited the Sint Maarten Coast Guard Station, where both Ministers discussed strengthening maritime enforcement and regional coordination.

In addition, all four Ministers participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new prison facility, a milestone within the broader Detention Sector Reform Program. While not part of the formal JVO agenda, their presence served as a powerful symbol of the Kingdom partners’ shared commitment to strengthening and modernizing the justice system, reflecting the very spirit of cooperation that defined this year’s consultation.

“The challenges we face in the justice sector are often similar, even if they emerge at different moments in time,” said Minister Tackling. “This project serves as a blueprint for what can be achieved when we work together, learn from one another, and invest collectively in long-term solutions.”

A Week of Exchange

Beyond the formal discussions, the week included a Welcome Reception and Cultural Night, providing delegates the opportunity to experience Sint Maarten’s warmth and vibrant culture, while also allowing for informal exchanges in a relaxed setting.

Reflecting on the week’s outcomes, the Ministers of Aruba, Curaçao and the Netherlands noted that the meetings had been particularly productive and highly constructive, and thanked Minister Tackling for the way she chaired the meetings, and also for the smooth and thoughtful organisation of the JVO.

Minister Tackling expressed her gratitude to her Kingdom counterparts and their delegations for their openness and constructive engagement.

“JVO 2026 has been a meaningful exchange that reaffirms the strength of our Kingdom partnership,” Minister Tackling stated. “The decisions taken this week will directly shape our justice systems from capacity building and youth prevention to data security and regional coordination. Most importantly, they reflect our shared dedication to fairness, safety, and justice for all citizens across the Kingdom.”

PHILIPSBURG:--- The political landscape of St. Maarten is currently embroiled in a governance crisis, as tensions within the Unified Resilient St. Maarten Movement (URSM) threaten to destabilize the Council of Ministers (COM). At the center of the controversy are allegations made by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina against Sueana Laville-Martis, Chief of Staff of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), and a power struggle with Minister of VSA Richinel Brug.

Allegations and Investigations

Prime Minister Mercelina has accused Laville-Martis of making a threatening remark, claiming she stated that he was "on her husband’s list." This allegation has led to an ongoing investigation, with the Prime Minister pushing for a vote to suspend or dismiss Laville-Martis from her position. However, the vote has yet to take place, as the investigation remains incomplete.

Laville-Martis has publicly denied any wrongdoing, asserting her innocence and demanding a public retraction from the Prime Minister. In a statement, she declared, "I would like to unequivocally state that I did not do anything wrong. I expect a full public retraction from the Prime Minister immediately. If necessary, rest assured that I will not hesitate to take legal action."

Minister Brug Defends Laville-Martis

Minister of VSA Richinel Brug has come to the defense of his Chief of Staff, expressing disappointment over the Prime Minister's unilateral decision to suspend her access to government facilities. Brug emphasized that the decision was made without consulting him, despite his position as the competent authority. "I find it quite unfortunate that such a decision was made without allowing the competent authority, which is my person, to hear both parties and decide on a way forward," Brug stated.

Brug conducted his own investigation and declared his full support for Laville-Martis, further escalating tensions between his office and the Prime Minister. The situation has also drawn attention to the reassignment of the World Bank-funded Mental Health Project from the Ministry of VSA to General Affairs, a move that has been linked to the ongoing conflict.

URSM Fracture and Governance Challenges

Internal discord within the URSM has significantly impacted the COM's functionality. Sources indicate that the Prime Minister lacks the full support of all ministers, further complicating efforts to resolve the crisis. It is alleged that the URSM had asked Minister Brug to resign last year, a request he declined. This unresolved tension has only added to the current governance challenges.

The Governor has reportedly intervened, meeting with both Mercelina and Brug earlier this week to urge them to address their grievances. Additionally, the Governor met with other members of the Council of Ministers on Friday in an attempt to mediate the situation. Despite these efforts, the fracture within the URSM continues to hinder the optimal functioning of the COM.

Public and Political Reactions

The public and political observers have expressed growing frustration over the lack of clarity and progress in addressing the allegations and power struggles. The denial of access to Laville-Martis has been criticized as a breach of due process, with many questioning the transparency of the administration's actions.

The Prime Minister’s desire to invoke Article 47 of the Rules of Order for the COM to remove the executive powers of Minister Brug has further fueled speculation about the underlying motives. Rumors have circulated about the Laville family, but no concrete evidence has been presented to substantiate these claims.

Broader Implications

The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about the broader implications for governance in St. Maarten. Advocacy groups and stakeholders have called for transparency and accountability, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution to the crisis. The situation has also highlighted operational challenges within the COM, as the lack of unity among ministers continues to impede decision-making.

As the investigation continues, the future of the Ministry of VSA and its critical initiatives, such as the Mental Health Project, remains uncertain. The situation underscores the importance of effective leadership and collaboration within government institutions to ensure the well-being of the nation.

Conclusion

The ongoing conflict within the URSM and the COM highlights the challenges of governance in a politically divided environment. As the investigation into the allegations against Laville-Martis unfolds, the public and stakeholders will be closely monitoring the actions of the Prime Minister, Minister Brug, and the Council of Ministers. The resolution of this crisis will be a critical test of the administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective governance.

NETHERLANDS: ---  Two subsidiaries of the Dutch construction giant VolkerWessels are set to appear before a judge next week regarding a major corruption scandal in Sint Maarten. The companies are accused of paying nearly €1 million in bribes to a government minister to secure a contract for a bridge construction project.

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service (OM) alleges the bribery occurred around 2013. The project involved building a causeway connecting the airport in Sint Maarten to the French side of the island. According to reports, Volker Construction International submitted two bids for the project. Initially, the proposal was rejected for being too expensive and aesthetically displeasing. However, months later, the government reversed its decision and accepted the same bid, sparking rumors and eventually triggering an investigation in 2015.

Key Witness Breaks the Case Open

In a rare move in a financial fraud case, the prosecution relies heavily on testimony from a "crown witness." While such witnesses are typically associated with organized crime or liquidation cases, this individual plays a pivotal role in the proceedings.

The witness was reportedly a central suspect who allegedly directed the payments to the minister. Instead of facing the charges alone, they chose to cooperate with authorities, providing detailed accounts of how the payments were structured and executed. This testimony accelerated the investigation, enabling the Justice Department to build a comprehensive case against the construction firm’s subsidiaries.

High-Profile Convictions and Potential Penalties

The recipient of the alleged bribes, former Sint Maarten minister Theo Heiliger, has already faced justice. In 2020, he was convicted and sentenced to six years in prison for his role in the scheme.

Now, the legal focus shifts to the corporate entities involved. The trial, taking place in Zwolle, Netherlands, puts the subsidiaries and a former administrator in the spotlight. While companies cannot be jailed, they face significant financial repercussions. The prosecution is pursuing a separate procedure to confiscate the profits made from the bridge project. Meanwhile, the former administrator involved faces a potential prison sentence, with the maximum penalty for bribery of an official set at 6 years.

Company Denies Wrongdoing

Despite the minister's prior conviction and the state witness's detailed testimony, VolkerWessels maintains its innocence. When approached for comment regarding the impact on the parent company, representatives declined to elaborate but stated they do not agree with the conclusions drawn by the Public Prosecution Service based on the facts presented.

The court hearings are scheduled for the coming weeks, with a ruling expected by February.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx8IJ-MW3xc

 Saint Martin:--- On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Louis Mussington, President of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, was questioned by the gendarmerie as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of public fund mismanagement. The interrogation, which lasted the entire day, stems from a procedure initiated in 2023 following a letter sent by four opposition members to the public prosecutor. The letter raised concerns about the recruitment practices for several positions within the Collectivité.

In an official statement released on Friday, January 16, President Mussington confirmed his participation in the scheduled hearing. He emphasized his commitment to transparency and his willingness to cooperate fully with investigators. "This procedure is ongoing, and it is not possible at this stage to delve into the details of the elements being examined," he stated. He also reaffirmed the Collectivité's dedication to serving the population while adhering strictly to public service regulations and the rule of law.

Investigation Details

The prosecutor's office in Basse-Terre confirmed that President Mussington was placed in police custody during the questioning on January 14. The investigation focuses on allegations of public funds mismanagement, particularly concerning the hiring of individuals reportedly close to the President since his election in 2022. The prosecutor's office clarified that no decisions have been made yet, as the investigation remains ongoing.

While President Mussington's custody was lifted on Wednesday evening, the prosecutor's office acknowledged that additional cases are under review. These cases are reportedly linked to the same 2023 letter from opposition members, which highlighted potential irregularities in recruitment practices.

President Mussington’s Response

In his official communiqué, President Mussington reiterated his respect for the institutions and his commitment to transparency. "I remain fully prepared to answer all the investigators' questions in a spirit of transparency and absolute respect for the institutions," he stated. He also reassured the public that the Collectivité of Saint-Martin continues its work in service of the population, operating within the framework of public service laws and regulations.

Broader Implications

This investigation marks a significant moment for the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, as it raises questions about governance and accountability within the administration. The outcome of the investigation could have far-reaching implications for the leadership of the Collectivité and its operations.

As the investigation progresses, the public awaits further updates from the prosecutor's office and the Collectivité. For now, President Mussington remains steadfast in his commitment to transparency and cooperation, while the Collectivité continues its mission to serve the people of Saint-Martin.