CYRUS WATHEY SQUARE--"We believe that Country St. Maarten will require forward looking and decisive leadership in the coming new era. We cannot afford the old and divisive politics of the recent past that at times have crippled our government and cast serious doubt on our ability to govern ourselves," said Theo Heyliger, leader of the newly-launched United People's (UP) party.

Heyliger, in the race to becoming the first prime minister of Country St. Maarten, said "the people need and deserve a viable alternative to the tired politics of ego and pride currently on offer. I left that kind of politics behind, because in such a climate the business of the people was forgotten. Join me in leaving it behind so that Country St. Maarten can move forward."

The "green" party was launched on Cyrus Wathey Square Saturday after a brief wreath laying ceremony at the statue of the late Dr. Claude Wathey, grandfather of Heyliger, who is considered by many as the "father of St. Maarten." UP board members signed party documents on the square named for Heyliger's great grandfather.

"The next decade will be crucial for Country St. Maarten as it steps out of the shadow of the Netherlands Antilles and onto the bright stage of the world," Heyliger said to a large gathering on the square.

He said of UP's objectives: "We must ensure the stability and growth of our economy. We must provide jobs and affordable housing for our people. We must create security and safety within our society. We must see that everyone has access to quality healthcare. We need to reform our tax structure. And we must ensure that our children receive a sound and proper education."

Speaking about the alarming rise in crime, the UP leader said it places enormous challenges on a small island like St. Maarten in a globalised economy. "Now, more than ever, we must be united at all social levels to protect what is valuable to us and preserve our peaceful and prosperous way of life. In the face of these serious threats and challenges, better ways of thinking that match this century's reality and urgency must replace the expired ideas of the last one."

To accomplish these objectives will require all the ingredients necessary in sustaining a healthy and viable St. Maarten - competent leadership, proven know-how, tried and tested experience, and a clear vision of the challenges, threats, and opportunities of the coming new era, Heyliger said.

"I sincerely believe that this organization, the United People, will provide these ingredients. We have the know-how, we have the experience, we have the vision, and we will now provide the much needed leadership."