New Government of Aruba Sworn In: AVP-Futuro Cabinet Takes Office

Yesterday morning, Aruba officially welcomed its new AVP-Futuro Cabinet, with six ministers sworn in before Governor His Excellency Mr. Alfonso Boekhoudt, following a lengthy cabinet formation process. This marks the end of the Wever-Croes II Cabinet, led by former Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes, and the beginning of a new chapter in Aruba’s governance.

New Leadership Takes the Helm

Leader of the AVP party and returning Prime Minister, Mike Eman, described the swearing-in as a deeply emotional and significant moment. “An emotional moment, of taking such a big responsibility again to lead our country in a coalition in which we invested a lot of time to create a base of trust between AVP and Futuro. I feel that the enthusiasm, determination and will to serve our community is very big,” he said, emphasizing the new government’s commitment to listen to the people and respond to community needs.

Vice-Prime Minister and Futuro leader, Ms. Gerlien Croes, also shared her gratitude for being sworn in. “I am honored to be part of this government. We have a lot of will and love to work for Aruba,” Croes commented, noting that work has already begun based on dossiers received from the outgoing cabinet.

Parliament and Budget Proceedings Begin

In the afternoon, Parliament convened to discuss the 2025 budget, a requirement under agreements with the Netherlands to finalize the budget by March 31. The new ministers will now proceed with implementing policies and programs in line with their coalition’s priorities.

Farewell to the Wever-Croes II Cabinet

Outgoing ministers expressed heartfelt goodbyes and shared reflections on social media. Former Prime Minister Wever-Croes visited ex-minister Ursell Arends, while other departing ministers, including Dangui Oduber (Tourism), Rocco Tjon (Justice), and Xiomara Maduro (Finance), shared moments from their handover to successors.

Photo Captions

Newly sworn-in AVP-Futuro Cabinet.
Youngest minister, Wendrick Cicilia (Tourism, Transport, and Labor, AVP), speaks to the press after being sworn in.
Ex-minister of Justice, Rocco Tjon, handing over duties to new minister Mervin Wyatt-Ras.
Ex-minister of Finance, Xiomara Maduro, with her successor, Geoffrey Wever.
Ex-minister of Tourism, Dangui Oduber, leaving office on his last day.
Ex-minister of Transport, Ursell Arends, talking to his successor, Wendrick Cicilia.
Ex-prime minister Evelyn Wever-Croes visits ex-minister Ursell Arends and his team on their last day.