WILLEMSTAD – Employees of Curaçao’s Tax Department have once again expressed concern over the return of consultant Wim Nijdam, leading to renewed unrest within the service.
Nijdam previously worked at the government accounting office SOAB and his involvement with the Tax Department has been a source of tension among staff for several months.
Concerns about his role first surfaced in October last year, shortly after former Minister of Finance Javier Silvania stepped down. At that time, employees briefly stopped work to demand clarity about Nijdam’s position and responsibilities within the department.
On Wednesday, staff again partially halted their duties and called in the public sector union ABVO. According to ABVO chairman Raymond Margaritha, some services continued during the protest, meaning the public experienced little disruption.
Minister of Finance Charles Cooper met with employees to address the situation. During the meeting, he explained that Nijdam’s role is strictly supportive and that he does not hold a managerial position within the Tax Department.
The minister also promised that the situation would be evaluated within two months. Employees are expected to receive further clarification following that review.