SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – The President of the NAPB Sint Maarten Union Marcus Pantophlet on Sunday, August 2, 2026, issued the following press statement. “The revelations surrounding the reported contractual relationship between UNOPS and a law firm bearing the name of our current Minister of Justice deserve more than silence—they demand transparency.
“As President of NAPB Sint Maarten, I have consistently maintained that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. Public confidence in our justice system is built on integrity, impartiality, and accountability.
“If the same international agency that reportedly awarded a US$90,000 contract to the Minister's former law practice is now providing technical advice to the Ministry of Justice on sensitive matters, then the Government has an obligation to clearly explain the safeguards that were put in place to prevent any real or perceived conflict of interest.
“This is not about making accusations of wrongdoing. It is about protecting the credibility of our institutions. Even the appearance of a conflict of interest can undermine public trust, especially within the justice system, where independence and objectivity are paramount.
“The people of Sint Maarten, our law enforcement officers, and every public servant deserve complete transparency. Were all relationships disclosed? Were appropriate recusal procedures considered where necessary? Were independent safeguards implemented? These are legitimate questions that deserve clear and timely answers.
“NAPB -Sint Maarten has never hesitated to speak out when the integrity of our justice system is at stake, regardless of who occupies public office. Accountability cannot be selective.
“The standards we expect from police officers must also apply to those entrusted with leading the Ministry of Justice. Transparency is not a threat to good governance—it is its foundation,” President of the NAPB- Sint Maarten Union Pantophlet said on Sunday.
