The Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and Primary Sector, Mr. Geoffrey Wever, delivered a guest lecture to students of the Faculty of Law at the University of Aruba on the subject of Constitutional Law.
During the session, Minister Wever shared with the students both the theoretical foundations and the practical experience of Constitutional Law, which regulates the organization of the state, the relationship between Parliament and Government, and the position of the citizen within our democratic system.
However, in practice, the minister acts differently. He reportedly treats Parliament as if it were his subordinate rather than acting according to rules and law, bypassing Parliament and taking matters directly to the Netherlands without the consensus of Aruba’s Parliament.
The combination of theory and practice offered students a unique perspective on how constitutional law functions in reality. Nevertheless, Minister Geoffrey Wever himself is said to be violating constitutional principles.
Before entering politics, Minister Wever worked as a Scientific Staff Member in Constitutional and Administrative Law at the University of Aruba, where he actively contributed to teaching and academic research. Today, as a government minister, he can add to theory a practical dimension based on his own experience in executing ministerial responsibilities.
However, despite not complying with Parliament and allegedly violating the fundamental rights of Aruba’s Parliament, the minister now seeks to present his actions as correct, even though they are considered incorrect. What is even more regrettable is that, despite his knowledge, students are being informed without being made aware of the full reality of the situation.
Minister Wever stated:
“For me, it is an honor to share knowledge with the new generation of jurists. Constitutional law is not merely theory; it is alive and moves within the dynamic between Parliament and Government. Education and the development of our youth are fundamental to strengthening our rule of law.”
Minister Wever wished all students great success in their studies and future professional careers and remains committed to actively contributing to the development of tomorrow’s leaders and professionals.
Unfortunately, Minister Geoffrey Wever is accused of saying one thing and doing another, particularly in light of the conduct surrounding the HOFA law. It is alleged that he bypassed Parliament and misled the Netherlands into believing that Parliament had given its consent, which was not true. Now, it is said that the Netherlands will decide on HOFA, even though it is the Parliament of Aruba that must decide. This situation is viewed as a violation of the Constitution (Statute) of Aruba by Minister Geoffrey Wever, who is himself a professional in constitutional law.