PPA faction leader Eduard Pieters has once again brought up an issue he has been denouncing since March: individuals who have obtained their permits to reside and work in Aruba are still facing difficulties in securing an appointment at Censo to complete their registration. PPA holds Minister Dowers responsible for the registration chaos and warns that the lack of capacity is directly affecting people’s dignity and social security.
According to Pieters, five months after his initial complaint, the problem not only persists, but there are now signs that an illegal appointment market is emerging, where time slots are allegedly being offered for sums between 50 and 200 florins.
“In March, we alerted the Government. Today it is August, and the system still tells people there are no spots available. Five months later, we are talking about the exact same problem,” Pieters stated.
“Do not blame the director of Censo; the responsibility lies with the minister”
Pieters made it clear that the problem should not be blamed on the management and employees of Censo. He referred to statements from management indicating that without sufficient personnel, funds, and resources, the department cannot process the additional volume of people who need to register. For Pieters, that is precisely where political responsibility begins.
Alarm over alleged illegal appointment sales
The situation became even more concerning, according Pieters, after PPA received indications via various social media platforms that Censo appointments are being illegally offered for money. He mentioned amounts between 50 and 200 florins. While acknowledging there is no formal complaint filed yet, he considers the signs serious enough for the Government to investigate immediately.
A registration with human consequences
Pieters emphasized that behind every appointment is a person. Someone may get a work and residency permit in Aruba, but without completing their registration, they may face difficulties regulating essential matters related to social security, financing, and service access. He specifically mentioned pregnant women who, due to registration issues, risk worrying about medical coverage and childbirth expenses.
Ultimately, Pieters’ message to the Government and Minister Dowers is direct: provide Censo with the necessary personnel, systems, and funds to serve citizens with dignity.