PHILIPSBURG – On Tuesday, September 8, 2026, the Parliament of Sint Maarten officially marked the opening of the New Parliamentary Year 2026-2027, in accordance with the Constitution of Sint Maarten.
On this occasion, a Solemn Public meeting was convened at 10.00 hrs. with a speech by His Excellency the Governor, Ajamu Baly, LL.M, on behalf of the Government. After the address by His Excellency, the President of Parliament declared the Parliamentary Year 2026-2027 officially opened.
As customary, the Solemn Public meeting was followed by a military parade through the streets of Philipsburg, which featured the Marine Detachment on Sint Maarten, the Sint Maarten Police Force, the Royal Marechaussee, the Coast Guard, the Voluntary Corps Sint Maarten, and the Sint Maarten Youth Brigade.
This year Parliament invited the Group 7 students from the Methodist Agogic Centre John A. Gumbs Campus and Browlia F. Millard Campus to view the parade at the Cyrus Wathey Square as well as to interact with the dignitaries present.
This year, the reception following the ceremonial meeting was hosted by the President of Parliament, the Hon. Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, at the Mona Lysa Lounge on Back Street. During the reception, Mr. Nahjah Wyatte Muñoz was announced as the recipient of the President of Parliament Award 2026.
As announced by the President of Parliament during the closing of the Parliamentary Year 2025-2026, the theme for the new Parliamentary Year is “Building Digital Trust: Responsible AI for a Stronger Democracy and Empowered Communities.”
In recognition of this theme, Parliament honored individuals and organizations whose significant contributions have positively impacted the community through digital innovation and the responsible use of technology. This year, Parliament recognized Mr. Marcus Nicolaas, Ms. Kester Small, the St. Maarten Library, the Foresee Foundation, and The People’s Tribune for their vision, commitment, and achievements in advancing digitalization and promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence within our community.
The Parliament of Sint Maarten takes this opportunity to thank all stakeholders and invited guests for their participation and for making the Opening of the New Parliamentary Year 2026-2027 a success.
