WILLEMSTAD - MFK MP Gilbert “Gibi” Doran has strongly condemned a proposal to raise the holiday allowance for ministers and Members of Parliament from 6 to 8 percent, calling the measure inappropriate and unethical during a time of financial strain for many households.
Doran voiced his criticism during the parliamentary debate on the National Ordinance to increase vacation benefits. He argued that it is “morally indefensible” for sitting politicians to boost their own compensation while residents continue to struggle with the rising cost of living and uncertainty remains over the long-promised AOV indexation.
“This is not the time to hand out pastechi,” Doran said, warning that political leaders risk losing credibility if they approve benefits for themselves while ordinary citizens face financial hardship.
Increase Should Apply to Civil Servants, Not Politicians
Doran stressed that the adjustment should be implemented only for civil servants, not for the current group of elected officials. He pointed out that many families are still waiting for relief, making it “incomprehensible” that politicians would prioritize their own allowances.
Decision Should Be Left to Next Government
Calling the matter a principle-based issue, Doran said that a decision of this nature should be reserved for a future cabinet and newly elected Parliament, rather than approved by the current political leadership.
The debate comes amid broader discussions about equity, government spending, and public trust in Curaçao’s political institutions.