WILLEMSTAD – Following a landmark electoral triumph, the Movement for the Future of Curaçao (MFK) is in the process of forming a new government. As part of this formation, eight ministerial candidates from the party are currently undergoing mandatory integrity screenings, as stipulated by the 2012 National Ordinance on Integrity. These screenings encompass judicial, financial, and security checks, as well as assessments of business interests and drug use.
Charles Cooper, the outgoing Minister of Traffic, Transport, and Spatial Planning, confirmed the ongoing screenings. He emphasized that the appointed formateur, attorney Chester Peterson, is responsible for ensuring strict adherence to the integrity protocols. Addressing circulating rumors that one candidate might fail the screening and withdraw, Cooper dismissed such claims as "absurd."
The integrity screening process is a critical step in Curaçao's cabinet formation, ensuring that appointed ministers meet established ethical and legal standards. This process has previously been a point of contention; for instance, during the 2010–2012 MFK-led government under Gerrit Schotte, concerns were raised about the thoroughness of screenings, particularly involving the Intelligence Service Curaçao (VDC). However, current MFK leadership appears committed to upholding the integrity protocols.
In the recent March 21, 2025, general elections, MFK, led by Gilmar "Pik" Pisas, secured a historic victory, winning 13 out of 21 parliamentary seats—a first in Curaçao's political history. This absolute majority allows MFK to form a government without coalition partners. Pisas, who previously served as Prime Minister in 2017 and from 2021 onward, is expected to continue in this role.
While the full cabinet lineup has not been officially announced, the integrity screenings are a pivotal step toward finalizing ministerial appointments. The outcome of these screenings will influence the composition of the new government, which is anticipated to be announced in the coming weeks.
As MFK prepares to govern with an absolute majority, the party's adherence to integrity protocols will be closely watched, reflecting its commitment to transparency and good governance.