WILLEMSTAD - Minister Ruisandro Cijntje of Economic Development is facing internal criticism within his own party, the Partido Nashonal di Pueblo (PNP), following an incident where he allegedly refused to undergo a security check by a security officer. The incident has sparked a heated debate within the PNP regarding the minister's behavior, with party leader Ruthmilda Larmonie-Cecilia publicly expressing concern about how internal party matters have been brought to light without directly addressing Cijntje's conduct.
The incident occurred at a location on Winston Churchillweg, where Cijntje engaged in a confrontation with a security officer attempting to check him. A voice note circulating on WhatsApp describes how the minister, possibly under the influence, declined to cooperate with the security check, leading to a verbal and potentially physical altercation.
In a statement to a local newspaper, Cijntje denies the accusations, claiming that the story has been taken out of context to tarnish his reputation, especially as the campaign season has begun. He argues that he was sober at the time and refers to video footage as evidence that there was no aggressive behavior on his part.
The incident has caused division within the PNP, with some members doubting Cijntje's statement and others questioning the party's handling of such situations. It is evident that the PNP faces a challenge in resolving this issue while also preparing for the upcoming elections.