Parliamentarian Hendrik Tevreden of the MEP party strongly criticized the Government’s approach to the proposed HOFA Kingdom Law (rijkswet HOFA), warning that it undermines Aruba’s democracy and autonomy.
According to Tevreden, the Government is presenting HOFA as a “logical step” following its agreement with the Netherlands, but in reality, Parliament—the highest body representing the people—was sidelined in the process. “In our constitutional system, Parliament comes first, followed by the Kingdom Government. Here it was done in reverse,” he said.
Tevreden argued that the Government committed itself to the Netherlands before consulting Parliament, effectively reducing the legislature to a “rubber stamp.” He stressed that the bestuurlijk akkoord signed in June 2024 is a political agreement, not law, and cannot replace the mandate of the people. Only Parliament can decide whether a Kingdom Law is justified.
He also highlighted the risks of HOFA:
- Institutional Danger: Bypassing Parliament’s role and undermining the separation of powers.
- Political Danger: Restricting Aruba’s Government’s freedom and creating dependency on The Hague.
- Democratic Danger: The people were not heard, and Parliament was only involved after a concept was already approved.
- Legal Danger: A consensus rijkswet requires parliamentary approval, yet Parliament has been treated as a spectator.
Calling HOFA a real threat to Aruba’s autonomy, Tevreden concluded: “Parliament must send a clear signal—without approval of Parliament, there can be no consensus Kingdom Law. HOFA is not just technical; it is a direct attack on our democratic and financial freedom. The answer must be a firm NO.
Photo Credits: Rijkswet HOFA ta un menaza pa nos democracia
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