Dear Editor,
I read the synopsis of DP-Statia's radio programme on Sunday, September 5. When I reached the last full sentence: "It was noted that the people of Statia had voted to remain in the Netherlands Antilles" I was flabbergasted. If this is really a statement coming from the DP board, then this is actually a ringing endorsement of Mr. Reginald Zaandam's actions so far.
When Mr. Zaandam stood up in the Dutch Second Chamber in April of this year and in no uncertain words made clear that the people of Statia had voted to remain in the Netherlands Antilles, he echoed the same sentiment of the DP board.
He further emphasised that integrating Statia into Holland without the consent of the people of Statia was a grave injustice and was also in violation of international law. Without any hesitation, the DP board publically stated that Mr. Zaandam was not speaking on behalf of the DP board. Who is fooling who?
When Mr. Zaandam on that same floor of the Dutch Second Chamber demanded that the right of self-determination must be protected and preserved for the future generations of Statians, he was telling the Dutch that the people of Statia had voted to remain in the Netherlands Antilles and that you cannot force the people of Statia to make use of that right. Who is fooling who?
When Mr. Zaandam voted against the amendment of the Statuut, it was a consequent act of him telling the Dutch that what was stated in Article 1(ii) of that amendment was not the wish of the people of Statia. He furthermore told the world that under no circumstances would he accept the fact that Holland would get the right to treat the people of Statia differently than those living in Holland. That was, according to the DP board, the "straw that broke the camel's back" that led to throwing him out of the party. Who is fooling who?
With this last full sentence it dawned on me that there was more in the mortar besides the pestle. Is it maybe the fact that Mr. Zaandam was getting too popular because he was the only one in DP-Statia that kept his promise to the people? He kept the people informed through radio, newsletters and the local newspaper. He was critical of government when it failed to do what was in the interest of the people of Stadia, and above all he refused to act as a rubber stamp.
Besides that, Mr. Zaandam is the only politician in Statia that is among the people and is at all times available to listen, to stand by the people and give a helping hand within his means. And it is understandable that this made especially those with political aspiration in the party and board uncomfortable.
To be candid, I must acknowledge Mr. DP President that I am glad I am not one of your brothers because of how you conspired with the rest of the board in getting Mr. Zaandam out of DP-Stadia – a man you stated you loved as a brother. This, Mr. DP President, brings to mind the words "et tu, Brute?" Just keep in mind that God does not like ugly, therefore I strongly advise you to read that piece of history and especially pay attention to the outcome.
Mr. Zaandam, I am encouraging you not to give up; I understood and many with me that you are going through some difficult days, but you proved to be a strong man, therefore we know you will survive. Golden Rock needs you now more than ever and I am counting on you.
Concerned Statian
Name withheld on request
