WILLEMSTAD – The General Audit Chamber of Curaçao has delivered a damning assessment of the government’s performance in 2024. In its annual report, the Chamber highlights persistent failures in financial management, police expenditures, and road maintenance. The report also reveals that the government’s 2022 financial statement does not comply with legal standards, fails to accurately reflect the state of public finances, and does not provide Parliament with reliable insights.
General Audit Chamber of Curaçao delivers report to Governor
Road Network Neglect
One of the most striking findings is the poor state of Curaçao’s road infrastructure. In a dedicated efficiency study, the Audit Chamber concluded that successive governments have failed to define clear objectives for road maintenance and that even when maintenance plans exist, they are often not implemented.
The quality of neighborhood streets is described as generally poor, main roads have not been inspected in years, and allocated funds often go unused without explanation.
Police Overspending and Poor Oversight
The Audit Chamber also sharply criticized the consistently high overtime costs at the Curaçao Police Force. Between 2018 and 2021, these costs increased from over NAf 12 million to nearly NAf 20 million per year.
These excessive expenses are attributed to staff shortages, high levels of sick leave, and weak financial oversight. In some instances, there is even uncertainty about the legality of the overtime payments claimed.
Climate Performance Lags Behind
Curaçao also scored poorly in an international climate scan conducted in 2024. The island achieved just 6 percent in the category of climate financing—placing it far behind other nations. Scores in climate policy and governance were also low, at just 44 and 43 percent respectively.
Call for Stronger Oversight and Impact
In his foreword to the report, Audit Chamber President Joël Felida announced that the institution will intensify its focus in 2025 on effectiveness audits, professional development, and alignment with international standards. The Chamber aims to increase its impact on government policy and actively promote responsible governance.
The year ends with twelve ongoing investigations, including into poverty policy, government buildings, and the licensing system. Many of these reports are expected to shed light in 2025 on performance and spending within key public sectors.
