ORANJESTAD – A public disagreement has emerged between Minister of Finance Geoffrey Wever and Member of Parliament Evelyn Wever-Croes following the government’s announcement of a $160 million financing arrangement on the international market. The dispute centers on the necessity of this financing given Aruba’s reported financial surplus.
Minister Geoffrey Wever defended the transaction, clarifying that the funding is not new debt but a refinancing of obligations expiring this year. He highlighted that the operation maintains the national debt level and interest costs while achieving a historic low for Aruba’s “country risk.” Wever explained that according to the 2026 Budget, Aruba must repay approximately 648 million Aruban florins in past debts. He noted that while 121 million will be covered by own funds, the remainder requires refinancing.
Evelyn Wever-Croes criticized the announcement on social media, questioning why a government boasting a surplus would proudly announce additional debt. The political clash escalated when Wever accused Wever-Croes of misinforming the public regarding basic refinancing functions.
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