ORANJESTAD (AAN): Independent parliamentarian mr. dr. Ryçond Santos do Nascimento has penned a scathing commentary on Aruba’s political landscape, declaring that “everyone knows Aruba is a corrupt paradise, because our political-economic system is a mafia,” while criticizing both major parties for failing to acknowledge it.
According to Santos do Nascimento, while former Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes claims AVP has a corruption problem, she herself faces four cases linked to her Cabinets—each with peculiar aspects.
Aruba Corruption Cases: Tulipan and Kwihi
The Tulipan Case is related to the Arubahuis dossier delivered to the Public Prosecutor’s Office by Wever-Croes herself, involving a plenipotentiary minister who lived in luxury without justification. When CAD investigated, Besaril could not prove meetings with important politicians, but CAD had to acknowledge he dined lavishly.
The Kwihi Case involves former minister Chris Romero, who appointed his ex-partner to a board, claiming there was no conflict since the romantic relationship had ended. The investigation also involves former minister Edison Briesen and concerns government contracts used to enrich certain individuals.
Aruba Corruption Cases: Flamingo and Diamante
The Flamingo Case involves former minister Otmar Oduber who allegedly received a tip about an impending investigation and fled abroad. The case involved alleged attempts to pressure minister Marisol Tromp, leading to what Santos do Nascimento describes as constitutional manipulation, requiring the Governor’s intervention.
The Diamante Case led to the fall of Cabinet Wever-Croes I, involving parliamentary faction funds and Alan Howell’s attempt to give himself a bonus, which he reportedly justified by claiming approval from “Sinterklaas.”
Meanwhile, Santos do Nascimento criticizes AVP leader Mike Eman for claiming the Public Prosecutor’s Office is not investigating any cases related to Cabinet Wever-Croes, and for portraying AVP figures as victims of political persecution.
“Meanwhile, everyone knows that Aruba is a corrupt paradise, because our political-economic system is a mafia,” the parliamentarian concluded.
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