MP Xiomara Maduro(MEP): "Insecurity costs more than investing in security"

ORANJESTAD – During the parliamentary debate on the situation at Aruba's Correctional Institution (KIA), Member of Parliament Xiomara Maduro said the ongoing crisis is placing an increasing financial burden on taxpayers and called for greater transparency and accountability from the government.

Maduro criticized the removal of security gates and baggage scanners before replacement systems were in place, requesting clarification on the decision, the risk assessment and the funding for new equipment. She also warned that emergency procedures should not be used to bypass transparency requirements.

She further noted that UNOPS has already completed the initial phase of a new prison project, estimated at $119 million, but said Parliament is still waiting for the promised documents following meetings with Dutch authorities. Maduro concluded that continued delays are costing the people of Aruba and urged the government to act with greater responsibility, planning and transparency.