St. Martin News Network

Philipsburg :--- "We've got a Country to build, and a people to protect," remarked Stuart Johnson Democratic Party (DP) of St. Maarten parliamentary candidate in the last Central Government Election held in January. "As we approach a historical election, we must be cognizant of the woes affecting our island and its people. We will be saying, "farewell" to the Country Netherlands Antilles and usher in a new era with Country St. Maarten," Johnson said. Johnson ran as the number seventh candidate on the DP slate. Johnson vehemently stated, "this and any election you shouldn't sell your vote; your vote is a priceless and powerful gift. I've always held firm to this belief, do you?" Johnson questioned.
He stated, "Country status is within sight but there is far more issues still left unsolved such as our education system, health care system, and justice system."
I firmly believe a ban should be placed on the use of any cellular phones, video cameras, and cameras in the voting booths on Election Day. Johnson said, "I call on the Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt and the governing coalition to do the right thing in keeping with the principles of democracy and transparency throughout the entire election."
Johnson questioned, "Has the sale of the votes improved anyone's situation after an election?
Have there been sustainable non government jobs created by the buying of an election?"
"Our people must progress while jobs must be created, opportunities must be fostered for our youth, our heritage/culture must be preserved and our environment must be protected. We cannot change the past but we are surely shape the future," Johnson said. "For those individuals who've engaged in those sorts of activities in the past or the present, let their conscience by their guide and let them deal with whatever consequences should come their way," Johnson added.
"I hold firm these beliefs and have always remained committed to the cause of working in the best interest of our island all the time, unlike some individuals who only pop up around election time to disappear afterwards again. Remember, "We've got a Country to build, and a people to protect," Johnson concluded.

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