The PPA faction has reaffirmed its invitation to all faction leaders to participate in the informational evening regarding HOFA and LWHO, which will take place on Tuesday, June 16, at SIMAR. According to Member of Parliament Eduard Pieters, this initiative was not and is not a political debate, but rather an effort to provide direct information to the people of Aruba on a topic that will impact the future of our country and everyone in it. “Our main goal is simple,” Pieters declared. “The people are asking for information, and we, as parliamentarians, have an obligation to inform.”
An Informational Gathering, Not a Debate
According to Pieters, the format of the activity is designed specifically to avoid political confrontation. The idea is for all faction leaders to participate as panelists, sharing information and answering questions from the community and the commercial sector.
“We are not looking for a debate. Debate happens in Parliament. Here, we want to give and receive information,” Pieters emphasized. The MP regretted that some political leaders interpreted the invitation as if it were a political debate, whereas the original call focused on guidance and getting clarification on the topic.
An Invitation That Remains Open
Pieters confirmed that the invitation remains open to any faction leader who wishes to participate.
“As of right now, the invitation is still on the table. We are sure that all political leaders understand the value of informing the people,” he expressed. According to Pieters, there is nothing negative about creating a space where citizens can ask questions and get direct information from their representatives in Parliament.
Information Is Never the Enemy of Democracy
One of Pieters’ central messages is that a well-informed populace is fundamental to a healthy democracy. “Information can never harm a people,” Pieters declared. “Information can never cause harm to a community. The more information a populace has, the stronger our democracy will become.”
To ensure impartiality, the PPA even sought an independent and professional moderator to guide the gathering. After personal circumstances prevented the initially chosen moderator from participating, Drs. Jose Fernandes accepted the responsibility of conducting the activity.
A Call to Unify, Not to Divide
Pieters concluded by noting that Aruba is facing important decisions regarding its institutional and financial future. Therefore, according to him, now is the time to share information and strengthen dialogue. “We continue to fight for unity. We continue to advocate for correct and transparent information. When it comes to the fundamental topics of our Constitution and the future of our country, we must put the general interest ahead of partisan political interests.”
“The people deserve information. And the invitation remains open to all faction leaders who wish to contribute to the dialogue.”