WILLEMSTAD – The Movementu Futuro Kòrsou (MFK) has won a historic landslide victory in Curaçao’s parliamentary elections, securing 13 of the 21 seats. This marks the first time in the island’s history that a single party has gained an absolute majority, allowing MFK to govern without forming a coalition.
The results were confirmed on Saturday morning, solidifying MFK’s dominance in the political landscape. Speaking after the announcement, party leader and former Prime Minister Gilmar ‘Pik’ Pisas expressed confidence in his administration’s future. “We will continue our work, and we can say that four more years of progress are ahead,” he stated.
Shift in Political Landscape
MFK’s victory means the Christian Democratic PNP, its former coalition partner, will no longer be needed in government. PNP managed to retain its four seats, the same as in the 2021 elections, while the liberal PAR suffered significant losses, dropping from four to two seats.
Voter turnout for this election stood at 68%, a decline from the 74% recorded in 2021.
Economic Recovery a Key Election Theme
MFK had already secured a dominant position in the 2021 elections, winning nine seats, which was then the highest for any party in three decades. At that time, MFK formed a coalition with PNP, focusing on lifting Curaçao out of the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Pisas’ leadership, the island’s economy experienced significant growth, driven by a resurgence in tourism and investment. While Pisas credits this economic recovery to his administration’s policies, critics argue that the rebound was a natural consequence of pandemic restrictions being lifted.
Coalition Collapse and the Road to Absolute Power
The Pisas-led government collapsed in May 2024 following a dispute between MFK and PNP. Tensions escalated when two PNP members openly questioned the integrity of Finance Minister Javier Silvania (MFK). In response, MFK refused to continue working with them, prompting PNP to withdraw from the coalition. This political fallout ultimately paved the way for MFK’s pursuit of absolute power.
What’s Next for MFK?
With an uncontested grip on government, MFK is expected to swiftly appoint a new cabinet and implement its policy agenda. The party has prioritized attracting foreign investment in tourism and infrastructure, expanding social housing, and improving primary healthcare services by reducing wait times.
Now, with a four-year mandate free from coalition constraints, MFK has the opportunity to fully execute its vision for Curaçao. The coming weeks will reveal how the party plans to shape the island’s future under its historic single-party rule.
