GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Sjamira Roseburg has asked the people of St. Maarten to reflect on the kind of political leadership they expect from their elected representatives, arguing that accountability must extend beyond campaign promises, public appearances and political statements to include a clear assessment of what politicians have actually accomplished while serving the country.
Speaking during an interview on the Breakfast Lounge with Lady Grace, the URSM faction leader emphasized that Members of Parliament should be prepared to account for their work, explain their decisions and demonstrate the progress made on the issues they have committed to addressing.
Roseburg repeatedly posed the question, "What type of politician do you want?" as she discussed her own parliamentary performance, her approach to legislative responsibilities and the importance of allowing citizens to evaluate their elected representatives based on their actions.
She explained that this philosophy prompted her to prepare an accountability report, presented in booklet form, outlining her parliamentary activities, legislative initiatives, accomplishments and matters still awaiting further action.
The report, she said, is intended to provide residents with a clearer understanding of how she has used her position in Parliament and what she has been working to achieve on their behalf.
Rather than expecting residents to rely solely on speeches and political assurances, Roseburg believes they should have information that allows them to examine the performance of their representatives over time. "Because you need to have a report card, right?" she remarked during the interview.
She explained that after a year of discussions, proposals and parliamentary activity, the public should be able to determine what has been accomplished, what remains in progress and where further action is required.
Accountability Must Be Measured Beyond Political Promises
Roseburg acknowledged that the public is not necessarily experiencing the improvements it expects from government and that many residents continue to struggle with everyday challenges.
When questioned about whether the country's political discussions and government initiatives are producing meaningful progress, she acknowledged that residents are not yet feeling the benefits in their daily lives.
However, she argued that while legislative reform and institutional improvements can take considerable time, this should not become an excuse for inaction.
According to Roseburg, parliamentarians have a responsibility to use the tools available to them, including legislative initiatives, motions, parliamentary questions and direct engagement with government ministries, to advance matters affecting the population. She maintained that her approach has been to remain active in pursuing solutions, even when results are not immediately visible.
As examples of the work included in her accountability report, Roseburg referred to her submitted abortion legislation, efforts concerning the LTU and rental legislation, and initiatives aimed at strengthening price controls and expanding the range of essential goods subject to regulation.
She also highlighted her involvement in proposals concerning customized license plates, the Crime Fund policy plan, illegal dumping enforcement and matters involving GEBE's billing system and disconnection procedures.
Roseburg explained that some initiatives remain in the legislative process, while others have been referred to or are being pursued by the relevant ministries. She emphasized that avoiding duplication and helping initiatives move forward are more important than receiving personal recognition.
Her report, she indicated, is intended to identify both completed actions and outstanding matters, allowing residents to follow the progress of the work rather than simply being told that something is being done.
Leadership Requires Independence and Accountability
Beyond providing an account of her parliamentary activities, Roseburg also addressed the importance of political independence and the responsibility elected officials have to explain their decisions.
She said that she does not believe Members of Parliament should support decisions simply because others are doing so or because a particular position may be politically convenient. "I vote my conscience," Roseburg stated, emphasizing that she must be able to explain the decisions she makes and the reasons behind her parliamentary votes.
For Roseburg, political representation requires the willingness to take a position, including when that position may be uncomfortable, and to remain accountable for the consequences of those decisions.
Her comments raised a broader question about what voters should expect from politicians: whether they place greater value on political visibility and public statements, or on sustained engagement, legislative work, independent judgment and demonstrable results.
She argued that political accountability should also involve a willingness to receive criticism, acknowledge shortcomings and make adjustments when necessary.
Roseburg stressed that accountability cannot be limited to politicians reporting on their activities. She believes residents must also take an active interest in what their representatives are doing and communicate their concerns, expectations and recommendations.
Reflecting on her commitment to providing what she has described as five-star representation, Roseburg said she wants to be able to evaluate whether she has met that standard or fallen short.
She acknowledged that she is not perfect and expressed a willingness to hear directly from residents about areas where she can improve.
Rather than relying on secondhand information or public speculation, she encouraged constituents to contact her directly with questions, concerns or suggestions for matters that should receive parliamentary attention.
Roseburg described the relationship between elected officials and the electorate as one involving responsibilities on both sides.
"It's a two-way street," she said.
She noted that although she occupies a seat in Parliament, she holds that position because of the people who elected her. Consequently, she believes residents have both the right and the responsibility to hold her accountable while participating in discussions about the country's priorities.
Voters Will Ultimately Decide
As the interview turned toward the next parliamentary elections in 2028, Roseburg again directed attention to her accountability report and challenged residents to consider what they expect from their political representatives.
She maintained that she has remained active throughout her time in Parliament and encouraged residents to evaluate that record for themselves.
When asked specifically about the political report card of the URSM party, Roseburg said that assessment ultimately belongs to the electorate.
She did not assign a rating to the party's performance, instead indicating that voters will have the opportunity to make their judgment in 2028.
