Gerlien Croes GevMin appointment criticism: Minister Gerlien Croes accused of misleading public over GevMin appointment, according to Parliamentarian Xiomara Maduro, who criticized the government’s recent decision to appoint a Minister Plenipotentiary (GevMin) in the Netherlands.
Maduro stated that the AVP–FUTURO government eventually decided to appoint Mildred (Milly) Schwengle as Minister Plenipotentiary after months of political pressure and criticism in Parliament.
Previously, Minister of Kingdom Relations Gerlien Croes had defended the decision not to appoint a permanent representative in the Netherlands, arguing that the position was too expensive for Aruba. Croes currently serves as Minister of Kingdom Relations, Education, Youth, Innovation and Sports in the AVP–FUTURO government.
Criticism Over Earlier Statements
According to Maduro, the government initially explained to the public that the position would not be filled because of the high costs associated with maintaining a Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague.
Instead, it was suggested that Minister Croes would travel regularly to the Netherlands to handle matters related to Kingdom relations.
However, Maduro argues that the later decision to appoint a GevMin shows that the earlier explanation given to the public was misleading.
“First the people were told that Aruba could not appoint a Minister Plenipotentiary because the position was too expensive. Now Aruba has appointed one anyway,” Maduro said.
Political Pressure Behind the Decision
Maduro claims that the change in policy demonstrates that political pressure played a role in the government’s decision.
According to her, permanent representation in the Netherlands is not a luxury but rather an important responsibility for Aruba within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Without such representation, the island risks having less influence in discussions affecting Kingdom policies.
Political figures have previously argued that Aruba needs a permanent voice in The Hague to defend its interests within the Kingdom structure.
Debate Over Representation
The issue of appointing a Minister Plenipotentiary has been widely debated in Aruba’s political landscape. The role involves representing Aruba in The Hague, participating in meetings and consultations with the other countries of the Kingdom, and defending Aruba’s interests at the Kingdom level.
Maduro concluded that although the government ultimately corrected its decision, the situation remains concerning because the public was initially given a different explanation regarding the costs and necessity of the position.
The political debate surrounding the appointment reflects broader discussions about transparency, governance, and Aruba’s representation within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
