WILLEMSTAD – Member of Parliament Giselle McWilliam (MAN) has criticized Minister of Finance and Public Health Javier Silvania for his evasive approach in responding to parliamentary oversight. McWilliam had raised questions regarding transparency in financial management, but she claims Silvania dodged the issues and instead launched a political attack rather than providing substantive answers.
According to McWilliam, Silvania deflected from the core issue by criticizing her and the previous government (2017-2021). She stressed that parliament has a duty to hold ministers accountable for financial policies. “Parliament has the right to ask questions, and ministers have the duty to provide accurate and substantive answers,” McWilliam stated.
Silvania Accuses McWilliam of Political Games
Silvania, who is running as the number two candidate on the MFK party’s list for the upcoming March 21 elections, reacted strongly to McWilliam’s questions, accusing her of playing politics. He argued that his administration is implementing sustainable financial policies and repairing the damage caused by the previous government. He also presented figures claiming that the Pisas cabinet has increased funding for social institutions and public funds since 2022.
McWilliam Challenges Silvania’s Claims
McWilliam disputed Silvania’s claims, pointing out that the minister failed to uphold Parliament’s budgetary oversight rights and did not provide full transparency on government spending. She also criticized the reallocation of budget surpluses without prior parliamentary approval, arguing that this undermined the legislature’s authority.
According to McWilliam, the situation highlights the importance of parliamentary oversight and the need for ministers to manage public funds transparently and responsibly. “This is not a personal attack, but a fundamental issue of good governance and respect for democratic principles,” she concluded.