WILLEMSTAD – The Council of Ministers of the Kingdom has approved the proposal to extend Michèle Russel-Capriles’ appointment as Deputy Governor of Curaçao. Russel-Capriles, who has served since June 1, 2019, for a term of six years, will now continue in her role for an extended period. 

This decision comes as preparations are underway to appoint a new Governor for Curaçao, as current Governor Lucille George-Wout will step down in October after serving two terms. Zsolt Szabó, the State Secretary, has confirmed that the process for selecting a new governor is already in progress, with the Curaçao government expected to propose a candidate for the position. 

Russel-Capriles has had a distinguished career, beginning as a member of the Curaçao Parliament for the PAR party in 1998. She later focused on art, culture, and healthcare and served on the boards of several companies and non-profit organizations. Notably, Russel-Capriles was a board member of the Prins Bernhard Culture Fund Caribbean Region for 15 years, seven of which she spent as its chair. In addition to her administrative roles, she has been an active sculptor and organizer of numerous art exhibitions. 

Her continued role as Deputy Governor highlights her dedication to public service and her significant contributions to Curaçao's cultural and governmental landscape. As the island prepares for the transition to a new governor, Russel-Capriles remains a key figure in Curaçao's political and cultural spheres.