MP Lyndon Lewis: My pledge remains to serve with integrity, to speak with honesty

GREAT BAY--In his remarks at the closing of the 2024–2025 Parliamentary year on Monday, September 8, Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis, faction leader of the Nation Opportunity Wealth (NOW) party, reflected on his first year in office, describing it as both humbling and unique, and pledged continued service to the people of Sint Maarten with integrity, focus, and determination.

Lewis recalled the extraordinary circumstances that marked the start of his political career. Shortly after being elected for the first time, he was entrusted with the portfolios of Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport in the Marcelino I Council of Ministers Cabinet. “In other words, I carried out two hats and was soon asked to bear a third,” he said, noting that the experience, while challenging, was a true test of resilience and responsibility.

On August 20, 2024, Lewis was sworn in as a Member of Parliament while still serving simultaneously as Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport until November 26, 2024. “I not only fulfilled my ministerial duties with dedication but also represented the people of Sint Maarten in this very chamber,” he stated. “It reminded me that leadership is not about comfort or convenience. It is about sacrifice, service, and staying true to the people who place their trust in us.”

Although he later transitioned from the coalition to the opposition benches, Lewis said his sense of duty to the people has never wavered:

“From the very beginning, I understood that the true purpose is to serve my people, regardless of which side of the aisle I sit on. My pledge remains the same: to serve with integrity, to speak with honesty, and to work with determination for the betterment of our beloved Sint Maarten.”

Lewis emphasized that Parliament must rise above division, avoid political games, and place the needs of families, youth, and the elderly at the center of its work. He called on his colleagues to make accountability and transparency a top priority:

“Without them, progress will never be truly felt by the people. We must remind ourselves that our strength lies in unity of purpose, respect for democracy, and a shared vision for progress.”

Looking ahead to the 2025–2026 Parliamentary year, Lewis expressed hope that Parliament would be remembered “not for conflict, but for cooperation and results.” He closed his remarks with a pledge:

“This chamber must never be about personal gain or political games. It must always be about service. May God guide us in our work, and may St. Maarten continue to rise and prosper.”

The new Parliamentary year will officially open on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

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