Recently, the Minister of Justice, Integration, Public Transport, and Energy, Arthur Dowers, accompanied by his legal team, attended a presentation at Utilities Aruba N.V. regarding recommendations to update and strengthen the articles of association of state-owned utility companies.
During the meeting, Aubrich Bakhuis, director of the Themis Institute for Governance and Leadership, together with Prof. Frank Kunneman, co-founder of the Themis Institute, presented a series of strategic recommendations focused on improving the corporate governance framework of these state entities. The recommendations are aimed at strengthening both the role and responsibilities of the Board of Supervisory Directors, as well as the position and authority of the shareholders.
The Themis Institute for Governance and Leadership is an academic and professional institute specialized in governance, leadership, constitutional law, and institutional development. The institute comprises recognized experts, including jurists, academics, and corporate governance specialists, who regularly contribute to the formulation of public policy and institutional reform within the Dutch Kingdom and the Caribbean region.
Minister Dowers, in his capacity as the representative of the Government as the majority shareholder of the utility companies, received an extensive explanation of the proposed changes. The recommendations aim to promote transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the management of state entities, ensuring that they continue to serve the public interest in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Minister Dowers expressed his appreciation for the contribution of the Themis Institute and emphasized the importance of strengthening our state-owned companies, considering that they play a crucial role in the economic development and well-being of Aruba.
