The leader of the FUTURO faction, Ruthlyn Lindor, expressed concern about the financial limitations that exist within the Loan Agreement for Financial Transactions (LAFT), particularly regarding how Aruba can use its financial surplus.
According to Lindor, the interest rate that Aruba is currently paying on its debts is at a relatively high level of 6.9 percent, which she considers higher than other debts the country has. However, she indicated that the main concern at this moment is that Aruba does not have the freedom to invest the surplus that the country is generating.
“The country is achieving a certain amount of profit, where one part naturally goes toward paying debts, but the other part of the surplus should be able to be used for investment in our community,” Lindor stated.
Need for more clarification regarding HOFA
Lindor added that, according to preliminary information, the framework of the Rijkswet HOFA would allow for a lower interest rate compared to the current situation. Nevertheless, she acknowledged that there is still no complete overview of all the details included in the law. Therefore, she indicated that the Minister of Finance, Geoffrey Wever, should appear before Parliament to provide a broader and more precise explanation of the implications of the agreement.
According to calculations mentioned by Lindor, the difference in financial burden could represent between 50 and 60 million florins per year. Over a period of approximately 11 to 12 years, that amount could reach close to 700 million florins, funds that, according to her, could be reinvested in the development of the population.
Possibility for social investment and financial resilience
Lindor emphasized that if Aruba gains more financial space, the country could invest in the social sector, education, and other national priorities. She indicated that this could also facilitate the payment of salaries and meet demands that labor unions regularly present, particularly when a surplus is available.
Additionally, she mentioned that a more stable financial situation could create opportunities for Aruba to diversify its economy and develop another economic pillar. It would also allow the government to build reserve funds for situations of disaster or emergency.
“Aruba must be able to rely on its own resources and not always have to go abroad to seek more credit or request additional financial assistance,” Lindor concluded.