WILLEMSTAD - Opposition parties MAN-PIN and PAR are calling for an urgent public parliamentary debate over what they describe as “serious concerns” surrounding the flow of government funds to the Government Accountants Bureau (SOAB). The parties warn that the government’s dual role — assigning projects to SOAB while the organization simultaneously serves as the government’s internal auditor — may constitute a conflict of interest.
In a letter sent to the President of Parliament, the opposition argues that the destination of these funds lacks transparency and may not be properly verifiable by Parliament.
Sharp Increase in SOAB-Related Expenditures
According to the figures presented, spending on SOAB surged between 2022 and 2023, particularly in the categories “hiring of personnel” and “funds placed under management.”
The allocations reportedly climbed from 8.9 million guilders in 2022 to 22.5 million guilders today, with no clear explanation from the government for this dramatic increase.
When viewed cumulatively, the total amount allocated to SOAB since 2022 reaches 43.6 million guilders. A breakdown shared by the opposition shows:
7 million guilders added in 2022–2023
another 7 million the following year
followed by 14.6 million guilders in both 2025 and 2026
Opposition members say the pattern raises pressing questions about how these funds are being spent and why such substantial increases were deemed necessary.
Parliament Still Waiting for SOAB’s 2024 Financial Statements
Compounding their concerns, MAN-PIN and PAR note that Parliament has not yet received SOAB’s 2024 financial statements, limiting lawmakers’ ability to assess whether the expenditures align with legal and budgetary standards.
Call for Public Hearings
Given the steep rise in public spending and the risk of perceived conflicts of interest, the opposition is urging the Parliament Chair to schedule a public meeting as soon as possible. They stress that full transparency is essential to ensure proper political oversight and to maintain public trust in how government funds are managed.
The issue is expected to spark significant debate in Parliament, especially as Curaçao faces broader questions about fiscal responsibility and institutional integrity.