PHILIPSBURG – St. Maarten Prime Minister Luc Mercelina has forcefully denied rumors of a looming rift within the governing coalition. In a strong statement issued Monday, the Prime Minister emphasized that his government remains solidly united and fully committed to fulfilling the mandate it received in the August 2024 parliamentary elections. 

“I reject any attempt to undermine the integrity of this coalition,” said Mercelina. “This government is united, focused, and determined in its work for the people of St. Maarten.” 

His comments came in response to growing speculation and reports suggesting tension within the coalition, which came to power on November 26, 2024. Mercelina firmly stated that any attempt to destabilize the government defies the will of the electorate. “Any parliamentarian who contributes to political disruption is ignoring the clear message delivered by the people during the elections,” he said. 

The Prime Minister also criticized media outlets—particularly from Curaçao—for what he described as fueling false narratives. He labeled such reporting as “not only irresponsible but slanderous,” adding that it paints an inaccurate picture of the political stability and maturity of St. Maarten. 

Mercelina concluded with a call to fellow lawmakers to rise above political gamesmanship. “Let us rise above the noise and fulfill our duty: to lead with integrity, to govern with vision, and to safeguard the stability of our country.”

Photo: Prime Minister Mercelina and Prime Minister Pisas