Jolinda Craane (UPB) leaves AVP Congress inspired for political work in Bonaire

ORANJESTAD — Jolinda Craane, deputy leader of Bonaire’s Union Patriotiko Boneriano (UPB), visited Aruba at the invitation of sister party AVP to attend its 2026 Congress, where Wendrick Cicilia was installed as the party’s new leader. In that political atmosphere, Craane told Noticiacla that the experience gave her an opportunity to observe a different political dynamic and take ideas back to Bonaire. Craane said politics in Aruba feels larger and more intense than in Bonaire. “In Bonaire, we are a little more peaceful,” she said, adding that it was “tremendous to experience” the energy and atmosphere surrounding the congress.

The UPB leader explained that she has never personally gone through a full election campaign process, making her visit an opportunity to observe firsthand how a party mobilizes its members, supporters and leadership during an important moment of transition. “It is a great moment to gain experience here and also get an idea of how we can do things in Bonaire,” Craane said.

The AVP Congress marked the transfer of leadership from Mike Eman to Wendrick Cicilia, while UPB itself is also going through a process of political renewal in Bonaire. Craane indicated that the Aruba experience could provide inspiration for that process.

According to her, the contacts with other politicians and the energy surrounding the congress are things she will take home with her. “I will return with more energy to continue bringing good things,” she said.

For Craane, the Aruba visit was therefore not only about witnessing a leadership change within a sister party, but also about learning from the experience and strengthening political ties between AVP and UPB.