ORANJESTAD (AAN): Ireno “Ivo” Valdes of the Public Pensioners Organization of Aruba (OPPA) has expressed concern about the level of poverty in Aruba, stating that many people choose not to acknowledge it.
According to Valdes, true security for a population means being able to afford food, pay for water and electricity, and live with dignity. He emphasized that poverty exists in Aruba, even if it is not always visible, as many people prefer not to show their struggles.
Valdes explained that public perception can be misleading. For example, the number of people camping during Easter may give the impression that there is no poverty. However, he noted that those who can afford such activities are not the ones struggling. Instead, many individuals remain at home facing financial difficulties and trying to survive each month with limited income.
He stressed that the Poverty in Aruba Government Vision is crucial to addressing this issue. According to Valdes, if Aruba has a government with a clear vision, poverty can be reduced over time. He believes that citizens vote for leadership that should actively fight poverty, not simply manage it.
Valdes also expressed concern about the elderly population, stating that many seniors are suffering. He warned that Aruba should not wait until situations worsen before taking action.
Furthermore, he highlighted that Aruba often relies on external support, particularly from the Netherlands, instead of proactively solving its own challenges. He urged the country to learn from past experiences and take decisive steps toward improvement.
Valdes concluded by emphasizing that Aruba must take responsibility, think strategically, and act now, as continuing to delay solutions will only result in greater hardship for the population, especially in addressing Poverty in Aruba Government Vision.
