WILLEMSTAD - The political party Korsou Esun Mihó (KEM) has held a protest march this morning to demand the release of its leader, Michelangelo ‘Lo’ Martines. Martines has been in custody since November 5 as a suspect in a criminal investigation into drug trafficking and money laundering, known as Operation Bleda. Last week, a judge ordered his detention to be extended by 60 days.
The protest march, under the slogan Free Lo Martines, began at 8:00 AM at KEM’s headquarters on Roodeweg. Demonstrators marched to the Common Court of Justice building near Nieuwe Haven. The party urged supporters to demonstrate peacefully, emphasizing that the event would be a passive march.
Claims of Political Imprisonment
KEM regards Martines as a political prisoner, asserting that he is being unjustly detained due to his political activities. The party alleges that various political actors are targeting Martines and aims to highlight this claim through the protest march.
After his arrest, Martines resigned from his seat in the Curaçao Parliament to focus on his defense fully. The resignation was also necessary to maintain the coalition with MFK. Former Member of Parliament Anthony Godett has since taken over his seat.
Operation Bleda and Broader Implications
Operation Bleda is seen as a significant effort to combat organized crime on the island. The investigation extends beyond Martines, targeting a broader criminal network involving substantial quantities of drugs and financial transactions. Advocates of the operation stress the importance of transparency and justice. However, KEM argues that the case is politically motivated.
The march represents KEM's ongoing effort to galvanize public support and challenge what it perceives as an attack on its leadership.