After more than a year of intensive work and dedication, the Aruban People’s Party (PPA) is preparing for a historic moment in its trajectory: the reopening of its party headquarters in San Nicolas. Party leader Mr. Otmar Oduber gave a detailed report on the progress of the reconstruction projects, which are now transforming into a symbol of hope, modernization, and patriotic pride.
The work, which began over a year ago, was necessitated by severe damage caused by debris and a fire that took place more than two years ago. What started as an attempt to repair the roof, lighting, and columns of the headquarters turned into a comprehensive reconstruction project.
“This is not a simple renovation, but a total reconstruction. The interior ceiling was removed and will be completely replaced,” the PPA leader explained.
This new roof has been installed with insulation materials and a modernized system to keep the building cooler, allowing for less air conditioning usage. During this process, a small workspace was created to ensure that staff and volunteers could continue operating and assisting the community.
These achievements became a reality thanks to the unconditional support of the public, who kept contacting and encouraging the party to ensure the reconstruction did not stall.
Phase 1: Celebration of 77 Years and Parliamentary Presence
The first phase of this project focuses on the initial section of the main building. It will house a modern meeting room and a small museum dedicated to honoring the history and achievements of PPA’s 77 years of existence, a milestone to be celebrated starting October 23rd.
This celebration comes at a time of great pride, marking PPA’s return to the Parliament of Aruba, represented by MP Mr. Edward Peters, who is receiving recognition for his good work and constant communication with the people.
“Everywhere we go among the community, we hear about the good work being done. I am extremely proud of this team as a whole,” Mr. Oduber expressed.
The timeline for Phase 1 has been formally established:
- December: The official opening will take place featuring the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony and firecracker display (pagara) in front of the building.
- January 3rd: PPA pledges to officially begin operating directly out of the Patriotic Center in San Nicolas.
The decision to keep the headquarters in this exact historic location in San Nicolas was firm and deliberate. San Nicolas is the home and root where the party was founded by the visionary Juancho Yrausquin. PPA highlighted that just as Juancho provided a vision for Aruba’s future—starting with the tourism vision that transformed the island from the era of goat herding into today’s thriving industry—the party maintains its commitment to the people who supported it from the very beginning.
Vision for the Future: Phase 2 and Community Role
The Patriotic Center will not serve merely as a political venue, but as an open space for all the people of Aruba. The goal is for future generations to visit, seek assistance, and learn about the history of the party that laid the foundations of modern Aruba, ranging from senior care projections to economic development.
After opening its doors in December and commencing full operations in January, the project will transition into Phase 2, during which the buildings will be expanded even further to ensure the center operates at peak capacity and serves the entire Aruban community.
After two decades outside parliament, PPA reaffirms its commitment to the people, taking immense pride in the work currently being delivered in parliament and preparing to open a new chapter from its renovated home in San Nicolas.
