The situation in the Parliament of Aruba is escalating, with members of the opposition categorizing the current management as a “dictatorship” and requesting direct intervention from the Governor of Aruba to restore parliamentary democracy.
Former President of Parliament Edgar Vrolijk, now part of the opposition, emphasized that throughout the history of Aruba, the right of members of Parliament to call meetings to debate crucial issues—such as the budget and other matters of public interest—has always been respected. However, the current situation, in which requests from ten parliamentarians are being ignored, is being described as a serious violation of constitutional rights.
Defense of the minority and the right to convene meetings
The speaker recalled that in the past, the same parties that are now in government demanded and received these same rights when they were in opposition.
- Democratic right: According to the Rules of Order, Parliament has the obligation to convene a meeting within 30 days after a formal request from three or more members.
- Lack of quorum: The main criticism is directed at the fact that the current coalition is using its majority to refuse quorum, block meetings, and consequently silence the voice of the representatives of the people—effectively silencing the people of Aruba.
- Equality in Parliament: “Even if you are only one person, you must have the right to present and to do your work,” the speaker emphasized, indicating that this type of oppression is unacceptable in a democratic system.
An appeal to the Governor as the “guardian” of democracy
Due to what they consider a democratic impasse, the opposition factions have sent an official letter to the Governor of Aruba. They argue that the Governor, as head of government and defender of the Constitution, has the duty to ensure that the laws and the rights of parliamentarians are properly upheld.
“The Governor cannot just stand by and watch… he must step up as the watchdog of democracy in the country of Aruba,” the speaker declared. This appeal is based on the idea that the Governor must intervene when the constitutional rights of parliamentarians are being undermined, and that Aruba is in danger under the current governing coalition.
Conclusion
The opposition remains firm in its position that the absence of public meetings is a “shame” and a misuse of power. They hope that intervention by the Governor will lead to a resolution in which parliamentary debates can continue in a transparent and fair manner, respecting the schedule and the voice of all elected members.
Meanwhile, the letter has been sent to the Governor.