Oranjestad (AAN): During this week’s parliamentary session on the Draft National Ordinance on the Establishment of Ministries (LIM), AVP parliamentary faction leader Jennifer Arends-Reyes emphasized with clarity and determination the critical importance of the LIM law within the framework of the new AVP–Futuro government, which received a clear mandate of 12 parliamentary seats to form and lead the country.
According to Arends-Reyes, the law that defines the structure and functioning of ministries “is not merely a technical document; it is the administrative foundation that ensures government can operate with clarity, accountability, and efficiency for the benefit of our people.”
She explained that in Aruba—where economic and social challenges remain a reality—the ministerial structure must be modern, functional, and results-oriented. Transparency, clearly defined portfolios, and the avoidance of overlapping responsibilities are essential to building a government apparatus that serves citizens effectively and protects against mismanagement.
Addressing Longstanding Governance Challenges
Arends-Reyes also referred to a long list of unresolved issues that have received insufficient attention over the past seven years. These include problems with the national census, difficulties obtaining appointments, thousands of pending applications at the Department of Integration, Policy and Admission (DIP), deteriorating infrastructure, poor road maintenance, ongoing challenges at water purification plants, and the lack of proper planning and implementation to protect nature and sustainability.
She stressed that these persistent issues clearly demonstrate Aruba’s need for a government system that works for the people, not against them.
Focus on Results, Accountability, and Financial Discipline
The AVP faction leader placed strong emphasis on a critical point:
“It is not enough to hold a title. We need performance indicators, evaluations, financial discipline, and qualified personnel. A ministry without direction is a risk to the people.”
Arends-Reyes insisted that when a ministry or part of a portfolio fails to deliver on its vision, there must be mechanisms in place to redistribute responsibilities, ensuring that no essential area is neglected.
She further highlighted that ministerial structure is directly linked to the national budget and the government’s policy agenda. Only when responsibilities are clearly defined can financial and social impacts be evaluated responsibly. The LIM law must therefore establish a clear connection between government plans, budgeting, and continuous evaluation.
Parliamentary Oversight Remains Essential
In closing, Arends-Reyes reaffirmed that Parliament plays a vital role in monitoring implementation and demanding evaluations after a period of execution.
“Aruba needs a strong, clear government apparatus that delivers results. We are committed to closely overseeing implementation and working toward an Aruba that truly serves its people with transparency and accountability,” she concluded.
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