WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao’s Tax Collector, Alfonso Trona, is under fire for his role in the mounting backlog of unpaid taxes on the island. The sharp criticism from Finance Minister Javier Silvania follows recent questions raised in the Dutch Parliament about the functioning of Curaçao’s tax authority. Dutch MP Aukje de Vries (VVD) expressed concerns over the increasing backlog, which surged from 2.6 billion guilders in January 2023 to 3.3 billion guilders by June 2024.
In a strongly worded letter, Silvania has demanded that Trona submit a comprehensive improvement plan by December 13, detailing measures to overhaul tax collection processes and address the ballooning arrears. The minister called the situation “unacceptable,” highlighting that despite previous agreements to reduce tax arrears by 10%, the backlog has instead increased by 10%.
Minister Silvania: Lack of Leadership and Accountability
Silvania accused Trona of a lack of leadership, monitoring, and personal accountability. “Your absence from meetings with team leaders, the management team, and even myself, without prior notice, demonstrates a lack of responsibility,” Silvania wrote. He further asserted that any progress within the tax department has been achieved in spite of Trona, not because of him.
This criticism aligns with findings from earlier audits conducted by the Government Audit Bureau (Soab), which revealed serious shortcomings in the tax authority’s internal controls and collection processes. Reports on promised improvements have yet to materialize, further compounding the issue.
Political Tensions Surrounding Trona’s Role
Trona’s position has long been a point of contention, partly due to his political connections with the former coalition partner PNP. With the recent shift in Curaçao’s political landscape, Silvania appears to be taking decisive action to address these long-standing concerns.
Parliamentary Pressure and Broader Implications
The issue gained international attention when MP Aukje de Vries raised questions in the Dutch Parliament about the deteriorating tax situation on Curaçao. She highlighted the alarming growth in tax arrears and questioned the effectiveness of measures to address the problem.
Silvania’s demand for immediate reform signals a turning point in efforts to overhaul the island’s tax administration. With a December deadline looming, all eyes will be on Trona to deliver a credible plan—or potentially face further consequences for his role in the escalating crisis.
