WILLEMSTAD - The internal strife within the Partido Alternativa Real (PAR) is far from resolved. This became evident after an intensive party council meeting held yesterday. Members of the party demanded clarification during this meeting regarding the position of parliamentarian Zita Jesus-Leito.
In a remarkable turn of events, political leader Quincy Girigorie offered to resign if there was insufficient support for the direction he envisions for the party. During the gathering, where Jesus-Leito was also present, she was given the opportunity to defend her stance.
Rebranding
Recent developments indicate that Girigorie has requested Jesus-Leito to relinquish her seat as part of a broader rebranding effort and in response to internal discussions on this matter.
Initially, Girigorie denied having asked Jesus-Leito to give up her seat, but later had to admit that this was indeed the case. Jesus-Leito has stated her intention to serve her term as elected parliamentarian in full, a position she has held since 2021.
Throughout the discussions, it was suggested that the party council was calling for Jesus-Leito to be left alone. She reiterated last night that she did not want to be the person standing in the way of the party and expressed willingness to leave if the party so desires, even if it means taking her seat with her.
Reconciliation
The party council extensively discussed reaching consensus, with some members urging reconciliation and speaking out against forcing Jesus-Leito to leave and against Girigorie's resignation.
At the end of the meeting, it was agreed that Girigorie and Jesus-Leito will engage in discussions to reach a solution by next Monday. Girigorie will reconsider his offer of resignation, as well as his previously held stance towards Jesus-Leito.
Additionally, two board members of the PAR party, parliamentarian Ana Maria Pauletta and former associate of Jesus-Leito, Kimberley Conscincion, submitted their resignations last night, leading to further speculation about internal tensions within the party. Pauletta confirmed her resignation but declined to delve into specific reasons, considering it an internal matter.