PHILIPSBURG:--- Sint Maarten’s government has officially crossed a line. Instead of fulfilling its most basic duties — keeping the public safe and ensuring functioning infrastructure — it is now begging businesses for donations to fund holiday security and festive lighting. Yes, you read that correctly: your tax dollars are not enough, so the government is turning to private pockets to do its job.
A Disturbing Mix of Mismanagement and Indulgence
This isn’t just poor planning; it’s a blatant display of misplaced priorities. While citizens struggle with skyrocketing prices and stagnant wages, government officials are apparently free to jet around the globe, attend parties, and spend it on lavish travel, all while leaving essential services underfunded. Now, they ask local businesses to pick up the tab.
Suppose these “donations” are accompanied by tax write-offs — as is likely — it doesn’t just shift the cost to the private sector. In that case, it reduces government revenue, further straining an already fragile budget. Effectively, the people and businesses of Sint Maarten are paying twice: first in taxes, then in “donations” to cover what the government should provide.
Extortion in Disguise?
One cannot ignore the coercive undertones here. Businesses are being asked to fund the very system that is supposed to protect them. Decline, and one can only imagine the subtle pressures: delayed permits, inspections, or simply falling out of favor with officials. The government presents this as collaboration, but in reality, it smells disturbingly like extortion.
The People Pay, the Government Plays
Meanwhile, ordinary residents face inflation, low wages, and the ever-rising cost of living. How is it justifiable to ask businesses to bankroll security for tourists and seasonal lights while the local population struggles to make ends meet? This is governance turned upside down — indulgent, irresponsible, and disconnected from the suffering of the people.
Where Is the Accountability?
Transparency is minimal. Who will audit these “donations”? How can the public be sure these funds won’t be diverted to other frivolous spending? With an administration already known for lavish travel and party expenses, confidence in accountability is low. The government is effectively monetizing public safety and gambling with the well-being of citizens.
Conclusion: A Call to Shame and Reform
Sint Maarten deserves a government that prioritizes its people over optics, parties, and international travel. Asking businesses to pay for basic public safety is not just irresponsible — it’s morally indefensible. If the government cannot fund security and infrastructure from its budget, it should step aside and let those who can govern responsibly take over. Public safety is not a donation drive; it is a fundamental obligation of governance.