WILLEMSTAD – The Electoral Council of Curaçao has formally objected to a proposed reduction of its 2026 budget, warning that the measure could jeopardize the independent execution of its statutory duties and have direct consequences for the preparation and organization of elections.
In a letter to Parliament, the Electoral Council states that the planned cut would undermine its functioning as an independent administrative body. The Council emphasizes that it is legally responsible for key tasks such as election organization, supervision, advisory functions, and public information, and that these responsibilities can only be carried out properly with stable and adequate funding. According to the Council, the proposed reduction threatens the continuity and reliability of the electoral process.
The Electoral Council stresses that it does not fall under the authority of any ministry and that budgetary control should not be used as a tool to limit its independence. In its explanation accompanying the 2026 budget, the Council warns that essential investments in staffing, digitalization, communication, and advisory capacity would no longer be possible if the cuts go through. It also notes that the workload will increase as upcoming elections approach, while previous years have already been marked by tight financial constraints.
The Council has asked Parliament to revise the proposed budget and to take into account its constitutional role within Curaçao’s democratic system. Deliberations on the 2026 national budget are still ongoing.