Former leader of the People’s Electoral Movement (MEP) and former Prime Minister of Aruba, Orlando Nelson “Nel” Oduber, was among the prominent guests at the commemorative event celebrating the MEP’s 55th anniversary at its headquarters. His presence added historical and symbolic weight to the evening of political reflection.
Oduber is remembered not only as a former head of government of Aruba, but also as one of the main architects of the process that led to the Status Aparte. According to Oduber, his role in the constitutional struggle marked a before and after in Aruba’s history, and even today no one can minimize the significance of this achievement for the country and its citizens.
In his remarks, Nel Oduber congratulated all those who have been part of the MEP in the past and present, and thanked them for their dedication in building the state structure, financial management, economic development, social policy, and sports. He recalled that the MEP was founded under the leadership of Betico Croes (may he rest in peace), and that he later continued that vision, which is currently led by Evelyn Wever-Croes, who has been at the helm of the party for 15 years.
Oduber emphasized that since its founding on February 9, 1971, the MEP quickly gained seats in Parliament and has never lost its position as a relevant political force. “The greatest task has always been to keep the MEP strong, with a clear vision and direction for Aruba,” he stressed.
He mentioned several key achievements of the MEP, including:
- Attracting international hotel chains at a time when few believed in Aruba;
- Creating Arubus as an essential public service;
- Institutionalizing the national anthem and flag;
- Strengthening state institutions;
- Resolving financial and constitutional tensions with the Netherlands in earlier years.
An important point in his speech was sports. According to Oduber, sports are not merely recreation, but a tool to build discipline, responsibility, and preparation for working and social life. He lamented that many people still underestimate its value.
Oduber also referred to the controversy surrounding the BBO (Business Turnover Tax). He stated that he proposed the 3% rate to help Aruba financially, but that a political campaign later manipulated public opinion to eliminate the tax — even though the BBO ultimately remained and was even increased.
In a more critical tone, he stated that he sees no clear vision in the current AVP–FUTURO government, describing their approach as “ad hoc” and reactive. In contrast, he praised the previous MEP government under Evelyn Wever-Croes for stabilizing the economy, reducing national debt, and managing both the pandemic crisis and the demands from the Netherlands.
One of his strongest criticisms concerned the prolonged absence of a Minister Plenipotentiary in the Netherlands. According to Oduber, it is “unacceptable” that almost a year after forming a government, Aruba still lacks official representation in the Netherlands to defend its interests within the Kingdom.
“Without a Minister Plenipotentiary, Aruba is without a voice in the Netherlands,” he said, calling this a sign of the current government’s lack of strategic vision.
He concluded by thanking the MEP as the political vehicle that gave him and many other Arubans the opportunity to serve the country, and encouraged the new generation to continue working for a strong, united, and respected Aruba within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
