Parliamentarian Rocco Tjon opened the week with strong criticism of the Government and Minister Gerlien Croes regarding the proposed new rijkswet (Kingdom law). Several members of the opposition have questioned why such decisions are being presented without the involvement of Aruba’s Parliament.
According to Tjon, the statements made by Minister Croes and the Government about the HOFA rijkswet do not reflect reality. He emphasized that there is no “final agreement” with the Netherlands to implement a Kingdom law under the leadership of Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes.
Tjon clarified that what was signed in June 2024 was merely a bestuurlijk akkoord—a political agreement that carries no binding obligation to become a Kingdom law, but only serves as a framework for negotiations.
He criticized Croes’ “arrogant stance, manipulative actions, and lack of transparency,” questioning why she has not openly claimed credit if the proposed law is truly beneficial for Aruba. Tjon further raised concerns that Parliament may have been bypassed when discussions took place in the Netherlands on August 13, 2025.
“The bestuurlijk akkoord is clear—it is only a framework for discussions and negotiations. It does not bind Aruba to anything, nor does it give Gerlien Croes the authority to present a draft law to the Netherlands without informing Parliament,” Tjon stressed.
He concluded by calling for transparency, saying: “Our signatures and our actions are our voice against the rijkswet. Aruba deserves serious politicians who take responsibility, not those who play political games.
Photo Credits: Ta ora pa Gobierno asumi nan responsabilidad
