WILLEMSTAD – The official screening process for the new cabinet of Curaçao is now underway, following the decisive election win by the MFK party, which secured 13 seats in the March 21 parliamentary elections. Formateur Chester Peterson submitted an interim progress report to Governor Lucille George-Wout on the status of the ongoing ministerial vetting. 

Despite the new cabinet formation, most MFK ministers are expected to remain in office, a reflection of the party's strong electoral mandate. However, all ministers—including those currently serving—must undergo screening again to assess their eligibility based on criteria such as integrity, financial conduct, and security clearance. 

Peterson confirmed that the responsible authorities have been formally contacted to carry out the required background checks, in accordance with the National Ordinance on the Integrity of Ministers. Governor George-Wout emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to both the letter and spirit of the law, highlighting the need for a transparent and trustworthy vetting process. 

The MFK reportedly took 47 days to compile its list of candidate ministers, a timeline that underscores the party's intent to present a solid and stable team. 

Peterson has committed to submitting a follow-up report on the cabinet formation process by May 20, as Curaçao prepares for the official swearing-in of the new government in the coming weeks.