At the close of the parliamentary year, the Movimiento Electoral di Pueblo (MEP) faction presented a motion of no confidence against Minister Gerlien Croes, based on a lack of clarity regarding a gift the minister had received. MEP faction leader Evelyn Wever-Croes explained that, during a previous debate, Minister Mike Eman stated that Minister Croes had not informed Parliament about the gift. Additionally, Minister Geoffrey Wever indicated that Croes had not answered essential questions about who paid for it, on what date, and the amount paid.
During the debates, Minister Wendrick Cecilia confirmed that the plane did not charge the minister, which was interpreted as Croes having “won” and thus receiving support from the AVP faction, except for Mike de Meza, and from FUTURO. Although the motion did not pass, MEP indicated that investigations would continue.
The MEP faction secured support from PPA, while AVP parliamentarian Mike de Meza abstained from voting, showing interest in obtaining additional evidence. Wever-Croes emphasized that the international investigation would continue, including verification of the plane’s license to obtain conclusive proof regarding the gift.
According to MEP, the situation reflects a challenge to integrity and transparency within the Government and Parliament and underscores the need for regulation and accountability. Ministers who “win” and gain parliamentary support reveal much about themselves as politicians and what they may be capable of when transparency is lacking.
MEP faction leader Evelyn Wever-Croes commented that the close of the 2025 parliamentary year is a moment to evaluate the strength of her faction and their experience in Parliament. Wever-Croes thanked her faction for their dedication and wished all citizens of Aruba a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.