The Island Governor has decided to initiate a fact-finding reconstruction of the decision-making process regarding land transactions within the Santa Clara area. The reconstruction is being conducted in response to recent questions and uncertainties that have arisen around various developments in the Santa Clara district. The Island Governor emphasizes that it is important to establish the facts carefully and independently, to provide clarity for the government, the civil service organization, and the residents of Bonaire.
In recent weeks, there has been significant political and public attention on several decisions made by the Executive Council concerning land transactions and land allocations in the Santa Clara area. Members of the Island Council have raised questions about these matters, and concerns have been expressed publicly about whether certain developments were handled in accordance with the principles of good governance and transparency.
The political debate has led to uncertainty and confusion among the population regarding how government responsibilities were carried out in this dossier.
“The reliability of Bonaire’s public administration is the foundation of the democratic rule of law and must be protected at all times. For that reason, I have decided to conduct a fact-finding reconstruction of the events from the beginning of the ‘Santa Clara’ dossier. This reconstruction must bring all facts to the table so that there is calm, clarity, and a factual basis for any further steps,” the Island Governor stated.
What does the reconstruction involve?
The facts, decisions, procedural steps, and responsibilities within the Santa Clara dossier will be mapped out. An independent external research agency will conduct the investigation in cooperation with the Integrity Office of the Public Entity Bonaire. The inquiry will examine when the Santa Clara trajectory began, which decisions were made and by whom, which parties were involved, and how administrative and governmental processes unfolded.
The research focuses on an independent assessment of the procedural course and will include recommendations to strengthen good governance moving forward. If the investigation reveals indications warranting further inquiry, a follow-up investigation may be initiated.
The Island Governor stresses the importance of a swift and careful process. Once completed, the findings will be made public and shared with the Executive Council, the Island Council, and the residents of Bonaire.
Press release: Public Entity Bonaire