WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s Minister of Health and Finance, Javier Silvania (MFK), has delivered a strong warning to the Supervisory Board (RvC) of the Fundashon Kuido di Ambulans Kòrsou (FKAK), demanding urgent reforms and leadership changes to restore confidence in the island’s ambulance service.
In a pair of critical letters sent this week, Silvania outlined a series of concerns about the governance and performance of the foundation and attached three firm deadlines for corrective action. He warned that the current FKAK license, which expires on August 31, will not be automatically renewed unless a clear and actionable improvement plan is submitted and approved.
“Only after receiving and thoroughly reviewing the proposed plan will a decision be made regarding the extension and the conditions of the permit,” Silvania wrote.
Harsh Criticism of Supervisory Board
The letters make clear the Minister’s dissatisfaction with the current leadership, stating that the Supervisory Board has fallen short of its oversight duties. In particular, Silvania called out Chairman Algeron Haile, demanding immediate action to correct the foundation’s course.
He instructed the board to submit a concrete and executable action plan no later than July 31, clearly detailing the steps to be taken to address “multiple identified shortcomings” and rebuild FKAK’s governance structure.
“I urge you to prepare a plan by July 31 that outlines specific measures to address the issues and fundamentally strengthen the organization,” the Minister wrote.
Concerns Over Leadership and Succession
In the same correspondence, Silvania raised concerns about the status of interim director Alwin Keli, who has long surpassed the statutory retirement age. According to FKAK’s internal rules, directors are expected to step down by the end of the fiscal year in which they reach retirement age.
The Minister instructed the board to initiate a formal leadership transition process no later than July 31, with the goal of appointing a new director by October 31. He also indicated that the new leader may be proposed for interim appointment if necessary to ensure a smooth transition.
“A capable new director must be appointed to guide FKAK through the many challenges it faces,” Silvania stressed.
License Renewal at Stake
The FKAK plays a critical role in Curaçao’s emergency healthcare system. Silvania's intervention signals growing concern over operational efficiency, accountability, and compliance at the ambulance foundation.
The Minister’s tough stance underscores the government’s intent to ensure high standards and transparency in public health services, especially amid increasing pressure to deliver more efficient and responsive care to the community.
If FKAK fails to meet the specified deadlines, its ability to operate under a renewed license could be at serious risk, opening the door to broader restructuring of ambulance services on the island.
