Tevreden(MEP) : AIOF debate exposes coalition divisions

ORANJESTAD — MEP parliamentarian Hendrik Tevreden says the debate on the General Investment and Development Fund (AIOF) exposed divisions within the coalition and left questions unanswered about priorities, transparency and oversight of public money. The budget passed with 11 votes in favour and seven against.

Tevreden points to AVP parliamentarian Mike de Meza’s support for an MEP motion demanding information and proof of payment for Minister Gerlien Croes’s private flight within two weeks. The motion failed. De Meza subsequently left the chamber and did not participate in the final budget vote.

According to Tevreden, MEP supports investment but demands clear criteria for selecting projects and measuring results. He claims seven of the eight projects did not undergo committee assessment, citing concerns raised by the Advisory Council and calls for transparency from Aruba’s Court of Audit.

Tevreden says approval of the fund does not remove the government’s responsibility to explain its decisions and remain accountable to Parliament.