Christopher Wever is well-acquainted with the complexities of public service in St. Maarten. As he transitions from the executive branch, he brings a grounded perspective shaped by experience, a deep commitment to serving others, and a focus on practical, tangible solutions. Known to many, particularly those who have sought his help, Wever comes from a lineage of individuals dedicated to giving back. His reputation as a generous, community-focused giver precedes him. One notable example of his character is his commitment to supporting children in need by rallying others to provide assistance. This trait will undoubtedly serve him well as he takes on a new role where expectations are high and influencing meaningful change is the goal.
Christopher Wever, a former Minister, is moving from his position in the cabinet of the Minister of VSA to occupying a seat in Parliament. Wever sees his ministerial experience as a distinct advantage. “I truly believe that having had experience within the executive branch can be seen as a benefit,” he explained. “When you know the day-to-day functioning of the executive branch, you would be able to bring tangible solutions on the floor of Parliament which would be able to be executed by the executive branch.”
This perspective positions him as a parliamentarian who understands the practical implications of legislation, bridging the gap between policymaking and implementation.
Transitioning from making decisions as a Minister to holding others accountable as an MP requires a shift in approach, but for Wever, communication is key. “Holding anyone accountable begins with proper communication,” he said. “I am not a person who will be making noise just for the sake of making noise. I see myself as a solutions-based MP who will communicate on what is expected. Proper dialogue is key to bring successful results.”
Additionally, Wever is unequivocal about his primary mission as an MP: raising the level of representation for the people of St. Maarten. “I plan to ensure to put the people of our country first and give them an MP which they can trust to represent them on all levels,” he said. He added that his work in Parliament would be focused on building a strong foundation for future generations. Our people can expect an MP who will put in the work for the future of our country.”
He understands that public trust hinges on connection and accountability. His plan to stay engaged includes both digital and traditional approaches. “In this modern age, technology allows for digital connections with persons through social media,” he noted. “Once in office, I will also start an interactive podcast focusing on the works in Parliament. I also believe in face-to-face contact as well.” By combining accessible communication methods with in-person interactions, Wever aims to ensure that constituents remain informed and involved.
When it comes to the sitting government, Wever’s expectations are simple and straightforward; transparency, accountability, and effectiveness. He emphasized the importance of communication in achieving these goals. “To bring true positive change might also mean that you must make unpopular decisions, but once it is communicated properly, the people will understand,” he said.
“Having worked as a social worker in the past on the island, I am passionate about our peoples’ mental health, our youth, and their safety,” he shared. One of his key initiatives is the creation of a sexual offender registry, which he campaigned on during the elections,” he said.
“Once in office, I will research which initiatives have already been started that might have been put on the shelves due to a particular MP not being in office anymore,” he said. “I believe that once there is something that has been started which can benefit the population of our country, we should see how we can pick it back up,” He added.
The soon-to-be MP highlighted electoral reform and environmental policies, as urgent areas of focus. “Of course, there is the much-talked-about electoral reform which needs urgent attention,” he said. “Policies which focus on our environment, ensuring the safety of our people, and bringing more funds to our government accounts are just some of the policies which have my full attention.”
“Good governance to me is more than just reciting words such as ‘integrity’ on the floor of Parliament,” he stated. “It’s about our day-to-day actions and how we conduct ourselves as elected and appointed officials. We need to be the positive examples for our people to follow,” he said.
“I plan to maintain the public’s trust by staying connected with our population and remaining true to my beliefs to ensure a positive change for our country,” he said. “Once we bring a level of maturity within our Parliament and take our positions seriously, the people will be able to trust those they have elected to represent them.”
He said when his time in Parliament ends, he hopes to leave behind a legacy of trust and meaningful change. “I would hope to have brought back trust and a real change within our political system,” he reflected. “I would have also hoped to have sparked the younger, up-and-coming generation to want to go into politics to ensure our country remains on a positive path for many generations to come.”
Source: The Peoples Tribune https://www.thepeoplestribunesxm.com
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