ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Common Court of Justice imposed a 240-hour community-service order in the Aisha Esser sentence, overturning her full acquittal in the Court of First Instance.
Appeals court finds bribery and abuse of office
According to 24ora, the former public employee was convicted of passive bribery by a public official and abuse of office. The service order carries a substitute term of 120 days in detention if it is not completed.
Esser worked as a civil servant and consultant in former infrastructure minister Otmar Oduber’s office. The court found that campaign workers and supporters were promised help obtaining government jobs in exchange for political support and votes.
Court also issued partial acquittals
The court acquitted Esser on allegations involving financial support from H.A. Croes and found insufficient proof for allegations involving several other individuals. It cited her subordinate role, the absence of direct personal financial gain and excessive delay in the proceedings when setting the penalty.
