WILLEMSTAD – Tensions continue to escalate between Soenita Van Dongen, owner of Daaibooi Beach Bar & Restaurant, and the Koperativa di Piskadónan di Daaibooi (KPD), as Van Dongen has taken legal action against KPD and other vendors operating without permits at the beach. She is demanding government intervention, stating that her complaints have been ignored for three years.
Legal Battle Over Unauthorized Business Activities
On February 5, Van Dongen issued a formal cease-and-desist letter to KPD, arguing that their operations are illegal. The next day, she sent a letter to the Ministry of Economic Development (MEO) and the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN), describing the unregulated commercial activities at the beach and urging authorities to act. According to her, KPD and other vendors operate without proper licenses, while officials fail to enforce regulations.
Community Protests Against Van Dongen
In response, KPD—supported by residents of Willibrordus—held a protest against Van Dongen yesterday, accusing her of pressuring them to stop their activities and threatening legal action. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas, who oversees GMN, visited the beach to discuss the issue with both parties. He acknowledged the ongoing dispute and promised to hold a formal meeting with all stakeholders on Thursday morning.
Court Ruling and Government Obligations
Daaibooi Beach Restaurant had already filed a lawsuit against the government, citing a lack of enforcement against illegal commercial operations. On December 16, the court ruled that authorities must decide within two months on Van Dongen’s request for enforcement. The judge ordered GMN to cover Daaibooi Beach Restaurant's legal costs but declined to impose immediate sanctions.
Court documents confirm that KPD and other vendors have been operating without valid permits since 2021. The judge also determined that no official authorization had been granted for commercial activities at Daaibooi—except for Van Dongen’s snack bar. Additionally, the ruling criticized MEO for issuing permits without consulting GMN, a violation of existing regulations.
Allegations of Political Influence and Government Inaction
Van Dongen claims she has faced intimidation, discrimination, and sabotage, despite her family's 25-year management of the restaurant. She further alleges that certain vendors have political connections within MEO, GMN, and the Curaçao Police Force (KPC), which has contributed to authorities turning a blind eye to illegal activities.
Since 2021, numerous complaints about unauthorized commercial operations have been submitted, but no enforcement action has been taken, according to Van Dongen.
Final Ultimatum to the Government
Frustrated by the lack of response, Van Dongen has given the government a five-day ultimatum to take action. If enforcement does not occur within this timeframe, she warns of further legal action.
“This is the government’s last chance to prove that they take laws and regulations seriously,” she stated.