The Party House (Cas di Partido), the president of the board of the Aruban People’s Party (AVP), Clifford Heyliger, officially announced that the AVP Congress 2026 – Era of Handover will take place on Sunday, October 4, 2026, in the ballroom of the Marriott Resort.
Heyliger made the announcement alongside party leader Mike Eman, list leader Wendrick Oduber, and AVP faction leader Jennifer Arends-Reyes. As board president, Heyliger is in charge of the organizational part of the congress, which will represent an important moment in the history and future of AVP.
During the congress, members will discuss statutory changes, the future of leadership, and a board change. The board members of the various foundations that the party maintains for member training, activity organization, and the development of new leaders and candidates will also be presented.
Heyliger acknowledged that any process of change can bring questions or doubts, but assured that the party is prepared to answer any concerns members may have.
“Change does not mean that AVP is abandoning its beliefs and convictions. All renewal is based on the same principles that AVP has always upheld. This is the process in which our party prepares for new leadership, with continuity of vision and commitment to Aruba,” Heyliger stated.
The AVP Congress 2026 will mark the beginning of a renewal process within the party. According to Heyliger, AVP has enough volunteers with passion, capacity, and willingness to accept the challenge of a leadership change while continuing to provide continuity to the party’s vision.
During the gathering, different motions will be presented, votes will be cast, and direct connection with the membership will be established to determine the future course of AVP.
“We want to continue giving Aruba what Aruba is accustomed to from AVP: leadership, dynamism, and passion, now strengthened with new faces and a generation ready to carry the responsibility forward,” Heyliger expressed.
As part of the preparations and the party’s reconstruction process, AVP will organize a fundraising bingo on Saturday, August 29. The funds raised will be dedicated to the necessary work to strengthen and rebuild the party’s organization.
With the AVP Congress 2026 – Era of Handover, AVP is preparing to open a new chapter based on renewal, the participation of its membership, and the continuity of the principles that have guided the party for generations.