One of the most attention-grabbing speeches in Parliament came from AVP parliamentarian Mike de Meza, who voiced his strong opposition to the proposed Kingdom Law HOFA.
De Meza expressed deep concern about the impact of the law on Aruba’s autonomy, recalling the nation’s long struggle for self-governance, which culminated in 1986 when Aruba achieved its “Status Aparte.” “With this law before us, we are accepting changes to our autonomy — something I find unacceptable,” he stated. “The only ones who granted Aruba its autonomy are the people, and only the people can change it through a clear mandate.”
For that reason, De Meza called for a referendum, stressing that any shift of authority to the Kingdom’s Council of Ministers would undermine Aruba’s independence. “How can we hand over our autonomy without first listening to the people? This matter is bigger than politics; it is about the fundamental rights of our nation,” he emphasized.
De Meza also questioned his own party, the AVP, for allegedly changing its stance. He reminded Parliament that both MEP and AVP, representing 85% of the electorate, had previously opposed the Kingdom Law. He criticized the current government for now supporting the law, going against the will of the Aruban people.
As De Meza delivered his speech, fellow AVP leader Mike Eman reportedly left the parliamentary chamber, highlighting the internal tensions surrounding this critical issue
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