Presence of convicted ex-premier at government-linked housing meeting sparks political backlash
WILLEMSTAD - Former Curaçao Prime Minister Gerrit Schotte, who was convicted of corruption in 2018, has resurfaced in an official capacity during a high-level meeting in Colombia, sparking widespread controversy across social media and political circles.
Photos and reports circulating online show Schotte participating in discussions with Lidio García Turbay, a Colombian senator and former president of the Colombian Senate. The meeting was part of a work visit linked to the “Mi Kas Awor” housing project, an initiative of the government-owned Fundashon Kas Popular (FKP) that focuses on affordable housing for Curaçao residents.
Gerrit Schotte sitting second from right
Consultant Role Confirmed
Minister of Social Development, Labor, and Welfare (SOAW) Charetti America-Francisca confirmed that Schotte attended the mission as a consultant for FKP. The minister stated that the trip was organized by FKP and not initiated by her ministry.
“FKP extended the invitation, and my role was to represent Curaçao’s social development priorities in coordination with the project,” America-Francisca clarified.
FKP falls under the portfolio of Minister Charles Cooper (MFK), who is currently responsible for the Ministry of Traffic, Transportation and Spatial Planning (VVRP) and recently also took over the Finance Ministry.
Political Shockwaves
Schotte’s appearance at an official function has drawn sharp criticism and surprise, given his criminal conviction. The former premier, founder of the Movementu Futuro Kòrsou (MFK) party, served as Curaçao’s first and youngest prime minister from 2010 to 2012.
In 2018, he was sentenced to three years in prison for corruption and money laundering, and ordered to repay 1.8 million guilders to the government. His re-emergence in an advisory capacity within a public institution has reignited debate over ethics, accountability, and the government’s vetting process for consultants.
Previous Ties to FKP Projects
According to local reports, Schotte has been informally linked to FKP-related projects through HD&M Urban Village Management, a company owned by Rudney Garmes. A leaked internal email reportedly thanked Schotte as a “special advisor” for his “knowledge and dedication” to housing initiatives.
Public Reaction
The news has triggered an online firestorm, with many questioning how a person convicted of corruption could participate in a government-affiliated project abroad. Critics argue that such involvement undermines public trust and sends the wrong message about transparency in public administration.
FKP and the ministries involved have yet to issue an official statement addressing the controversy. However, calls are growing for clarification and oversight on how consultants are selected for taxpayer-funded missions.
For now, Schotte’s return to the political and administrative scene — even indirectly — has reignited one of Curaçao’s most contentious debates: can those once convicted of corruption still play a role in public affairs?
