Why Politics?
I grew up in a humble family in Noord Cura Cabai. One of the most important values instilled in me was to love others and work hard to achieve my goals. I chose to study orthopedagogy and family therapy because of my passion for helping people.
In my professional work, I have found that truly helping others requires changes in laws, procedures, and institutions that serve children, women, and other vulnerable groups in our community. I realized that through politics, I could work to improve conditions for those I want to help. That's why I decided to enter the political arena when I was called upon to do so.
What makes Mervin the right person for politics?
I enjoy listening to others’ experiences and have deep respect for others. I am a fair person and confident in myself. Since childhood, I have always stood up against injustice, expressing my opinions and advocating for those at a disadvantage. When it’s time to stand firm in my convictions, I do so and take full responsibility. These are all essential qualities for a politician today, where human rights are central.
How do you stay ‘Updated’?
I am a positive, cheerful, and open-minded person, and I love staying informed about global developments and new technologies. It's never too late to learn. Additionally, I am open to change, which helps me connect with those who hold different opinions. My ideas evolve over time because personal growth never stops. This is how I believe I can stay relevant and updated.
How do you maintain human contact in a Social Media era?
There’s nothing better than a face-to-face conversation. Although I make extensive use of social media, I love visiting people in person, sharing warmth and friendship. I also enjoy calling or chatting with people on the phone.
Most urgent challenges?
The primary challenge is improving the purchasing power of our citizens, which has drastically decreased in recent years, especially for our elderly and those earning minimum wage. I meet citizens who, just a few years ago, enjoyed a good quality of life and now struggle to cover basic needs like water, electricity, gas, rent, and food. Another challenge is public health, where citizens lack easy access to basic medical care and medications, which they must pay for while their wallets are nearly empty. The third challenge involves parents working multiple jobs yet still unable to meet expenses or provide adequate care for their children, often leaving young children with others or in unsafe situations.
Crucial areas for immediate action?
Urgent action is needed to improve citizens' purchasing power, which impacts families and communities as a whole, addressing poverty, health (including mental health), and crime issues. If we don't act now, it may be too late tomorrow. Thus, we must work together with stakeholders to tackle these areas. “Poverty, health issues (including mental health), and crime must be addressed.”
How does Mervin stay honest as a Politician?
Sincerity, honesty, and integrity are essential virtues. As a politician, one must answer whether something is possible or not. Additionally, one must not rely on others. Transparency is crucial so the public can see what is being done, especially when managing public funds. Proper checks and balances are necessary. I act on my own so that everything can be seen, without depending on others. My votes in Parliament are sacred and for the public's benefit. This has even led me to conflict within my own party, which resulted in my departure from the MEP party in December 2010.
Ideal term for a political career:
A politician should serve as long as the people support and trust them to represent them. It’s not about duration but the quality and impact of their work. The revised governance law removed the pension that politicians could accumulate through long service, which affects the length of possible representation.
Vision for the next 4 years?
- Reducing the cost of living for everyone and controlling the prices of essential products.
- Social justice for vulnerable groups, such as youth, the elderly, and retirees.
- Subsidies for parents and financial support for young children.
- Quality and affordable housing for all.
- Accessible healthcare and mental health promotion.
- Guidance in cases of abuse, addiction, and crime.
- Use of renewable energy and environmental protection.
“A vote for me, Melvin G. Wyatt-Ras, better known as Mervin, is a vote for honesty and political integrity. It is a vote to ensure a representative who advocates for the vulnerable in our community, including children, single mothers, the elderly, and those with limitations. It also means ensuring quality healthcare for everyone, with better access to medicines and specialists and without charging the vulnerable in our community. Social justice and an improved social sector will be priorities. A vote for me is a commitment to quality, affordable care centers for children and the elderly, increased protection for our children against violence and abuse, and crime prevention. It is a vote for improved mental health, with dialogue among partners in social and healthcare fields. A vote for me will ensure that we can call Aruba our home and feel proud of our country. A vote for Mervin is a vote for equal rights and opportunities for all.”
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