Oranjestad — Internal pressure is mounting within the AVP party as parliamentary member Stephany Sevinger advocates for a pardon for her father, former Minister Benny Sevinger, following the Supreme Court’s final confirmation of his conviction in the Avestruz corruption case.
The Supreme Court’s (Hoge Raad) decision dealt a severe blow to the green party, confirming the conviction against one of its most influential figures in recent decades. However, the legal battle may not yet be concluded.
Nine-Day Pardon Window
According to circulating information, there is a legal period of nine days during which the convicted—Benny Sevinger, Leoncita Arends, and Pieter Susebeek—can submit a pardon petition to avoid entering prison.
Internal Party Dynamics
While the AVP faction has requested “privacy” for their parliamentary colleague, internal sources indicate that Sevinger’s daughter is exerting significant pressure to secure a pardon for her father. As a current parliamentarian, Stephany Sevinger occupies a key position to pressure the party internally.
The main argument is based on the loyalty Benny Sevinger demonstrated over many years, where he served as an electoral motor and helped the party grow through the same foundation that now forms the basis of his conviction.
Questioning the Origins
In political circles, many question the origin of the “contracts” (opdrachtnan) during that period. There is a sentiment that many of those involved in the case were more linked to the friendship with the former Prime Minister—now once again Prime Minister Mike Eman—than to Sevinger himself. This raises uncomfortable questions about who should bear the final responsibility.
AVP Faction’s Response
Through an official statement, the AVP faction reacted to the sentence, attempting to maintain a posture of respect for the Rule of Law while focusing their empathy on the daughter:
“AVP faction has taken note of the sentence in the Avestruz case. We express our sincere empathy and support for our colleague Stephany Sevinger and her family. We respect her privacy and dignity in these moments,” the statement read.
Additionally, the party took the opportunity to request judicial authorities to accelerate other alleged corruption cases that remain pending. Many view this maneuver as an attempt to divert attention from the reality that two former AVP ministers must serve their sentences.
Pardon Process Under Pressure
Before reaching the pardon route, the option through the Enkel band was explored, but this is a relatively new process with a difficult path. Therefore, the pardon route was chosen, which is currently putting significant pressure on Justice Minister Arthur Dowers.
A pardon petition is processed by the Minister of Justice. Pardon is an extraordinary instrument that can reduce, modify, or eliminate a punishment completely.
Public Skepticism
This situation places enormous weight on the political dimension. The community views this with significant skepticism, interpreting this maneuver as a desperate attempt for the convicted to “get away” with their actions.
The fundamental question that remains on the table is: will there be the political will to uphold a decision by the highest court?
Meanwhile, the largest corruption novel of recent years in Aruba is entering its final chapter, where the line between family loyalty, political pressure, and justice is becoming increasingly thin.
