The political situation in Aruba is escalating around issues of transparency and accountability. Rocco Tjon reported that the deadline for Minister Gerlien Croes to answer questions regarding the private jet expires today. The case has drawn significant attention in Parliament and the community, as people seek to understand what really happened and whether the minister acted according to the rules.
Meanwhile, the MEP faction has requested a legal opinion from an American lawyer to investigate further and establish whether the minister has spoken the truth or if there is evidence of irregularities.
“Minister Gerlien Croes has no shame; she earns from an entire people and the Netherlands and acts as if nothing happened. A shame for Aruba.”
The comparison with the Netherlands highlights the importance of respect and decency in politics: a Dutch parliamentarian resigned because a controversy affected their CV. In Aruba, however, a minister who misled Parliament and lost public trust still remains in office while many citizens criticize her conduct, and the government takes no action. This situation raises questions: can the Netherlands really trust leaders like this? How can it be that Dutch authorities accept politicians who do not respect integrity and transparency?
Although the minister owes the public a clear explanation, her “boldness” and arrogance in handling the situation raise doubts about whether she is truly fulfilling her obligations. The public is demanding clarity, accountability, and responsibility — especially regarding the gain and maneuvers reminiscent of a previous gift case that went to court and resulted in punishment. All signs point to a critical question: does the minister aim to avoid condemnation or to remain immune?
The situation reflects a larger challenge for Aruban leaders: transparency, public trust, and integrity in the governance of the country — politically, legally, and in the public image of Aruba.
The government, however, cannot forget that the people pay its salary and expect clarity. Citizens are demanding a concrete budget and full accountability regarding the controversy over gifts and/or private jet payments, which have become a larger symbol of the lack of accountability under the AVP-FUTURO administration