Parliamentarian Dangui Oduber has expressed serious concern over the intention of Minister of Economic Affairs, Geoffrey Wever, to eliminate the Basic Basket, a measure that, according to Oduber, directly affects Aruba’s lower-income citizens.
According to Oduber, the Basic Basket represents an essential social protection tool, as it allows products of basic necessity to be offered at a government-set maximum price, preventing excessive increases that could put vulnerable citizens out of reach of basic food items. Oduber emphasized that eliminating this mechanism would weaken food security for many families.
The parliamentarian also indicated that, instead of defending consumer interests, current policy favors commerce, which, according to Oduber, contradicts the government’s responsibility to protect purchasing power and public well-being.
Oduber questioned the investigative process conducted through the Aruba Fair Trade Authority (AFTA), an organization led by a director appointed by Minister Wever himself. He raised concerns about a possible conflict of interest?, noting allegations that political relationships may have influenced AFTA’s advice to government to eliminate the Basic Basket ?.
According to Oduber, the AVP–FUTURO government must reflect on its leadership role, as its priority should be to empower citizens, control inflation, and improve quality of life. “Eliminating the Basic Basket moves in the opposite direction,” Oduber stated.
Public figures from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) indicate that the purchasing power of Arubans has declined considerably, a situation confirmed by the Central Bank in recent research. According to the latest data, 88% of respondents in a Central Bank survey reported a deterioration in their purchasing power. Additionally, CBS confirmed that the subsistence level has risen, while inflation projections for 2025 and 2026 are higher than previously expected.
Oduber reminded that during the election campaign, Minister Wever promised improvements in purchasing power and price stability—promises that, according to Oduber, have not been fulfilled after nearly a year of governance.
The parliamentarian also criticized the recent increase in gas prices, noting that the decision was taken without clear economic necessity, especially considering that Arugas operates as a monopoly and was already generating significant profits.
Finally, Oduber stated that, despite Aruba currently having a surplus of approximately 500 million florin, the government has not focused enough on protecting the most vulnerable groups. According to Oduber, current economic policy serves commercial interests rather than the general interest of the people of Aruba.