WILLEMSTAD – The Electoral Council (ER) has submitted the names of 31 candidates from the March 21 elections to the Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM) for failing to file legally required donation reports.

Out of the 203 candidates who contested the election, 31 did not submit an overview of contributions received during their campaigns. According to the ER, its work on the matter has now been completed, and it is up to prosecutors to decide whether further action will follow.

The law on party financing requires every candidate on an electoral list to account for all donations received. The ER warned that violations can carry significant consequences: offenders risk fines of up to 10,000 guilders or prison sentences of up to three months.

The referral underscores ongoing efforts to improve transparency in campaign financing and to enforce accountability among those seeking public office. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has not yet indicated when it will decide on possible next steps.