ORANJESTAD – Although the new leader of the AVP party will be chosen through a democratic election, current party leader Mike Eman has acknowledged that he has a preferred candidate. During Thursday night’s episode of Noticiacla LIVE, Eman openly stated to host Tito Laclé that he would like Wendrick Cicilia to become the next leader of the AVP. While emphasizing that the party’s choice will be respected, Eman confirmed that Cicilia is his personal preference.
According to Eman, it was no coincidence that Cicilia was placed in the number one position on the party list in 2024, a move that reflected his confidence in Cicilia’s leadership abilities.
The Eman Family?
There has long been speculation within the community that leadership of the AVP would always remain within the Eman family. Mike Eman acknowledged that several family members are actively involved in politics and the party, including Trevor Eman, Sigfried “Sigi” Eman, and a niece based in Utrecht, Rebecca Eman. However, he stressed that none of them are currently being prepared to take over the party leadership.
When asked directly whether a family member was being groomed for the role, Eman firmly denied this, stating that time will reveal future developments, but that no such plan exists at present.
Wendrick Cicilia
Eman noted that many capable individuals exist within the party, but one stands out above the rest. “Naturally, I must allow the party to choose its own path,” Eman said, “but it is no secret where my heart and feelings lie,” referring again to Cicilia’s placement at the top of the list.
He clarified that while it is not his role to appoint a political leader, he is very open about his preference for Wendrick Cicilia at this time. The AVP is scheduled to hold internal elections in September, and Eman indicated that stepping down as party leader around September 1—his birthday—would be a fitting moment.
Eman emphasized that stepping aside as party leader does not mean he will abandon the party or his role as Prime Minister, and assured that the party will continue to fulfill the promises made during the election.
Photo Credits : https://www.noticiacla.com/news/36122
