WILLEMSTAD - The Save Zakito Movement expresses its serious concerns regarding the recent procurement announced on January 3, 2025, by the Ministry of Transport, Traffic, and Spatial Planning (VVRP) for the development of a 78,050 m² plot in the Zakito area. Developers are required to submit their plans by January 17, leaving only two weeks to respond.
As residents of the Zakito area, we are not opposed to tourism and urban development on our island; we recognize the importance of projects that can create jobs and stimulate economic growth. However,
we demand that these developments be carried out transparently, sustainably, and in the interest of the entire Curaçao community, adhering to the guidelines of the Spatial Development Plan (EOP), avoiding preferential treatment, and following the principles of fairness and equity.
Concerns About the Current Process
1. Lack of Transparency in the Procurement Process
We have reviewed the Registration Guidelines issued by UO Domein and are concerned that the procurement process seems more like a formality
than a genuinely open and fair tender. The timeframe of only two weeks for submitting proposals is unreasonably short for a project of this scale. This raises serious doubts about the transparency of the
process and whether all potential participants have been given a fair opportunity to compete.
Additionally, it is evident that a master plan for the development of the area already exists, prepared between the government and a developer, with infrastructure work already being carried out by
another developer. Why has this plan not been made available as a reference for all interested parties?
2. Consistent Application of the EOP
The EOP provides clear regulations regarding land use, infrastructure, and environmental impact. In this case, the government has ignored critical limitations, such as capacity constraints in areas like Klein Hofje, the maximum building height (4 stories, as stated in the EOP), and the necessity of maintaining connectivity and public access.
3. Neglect of Environmental and Social Impact
The Zakito area was previously promised to be preserved as a recreational space for residents and visitors. The complete occupation of this space for private purposes and tourism will further disrupt
the already fragile environment, including mangroves, coral reefs, and water flow, leading to issues like odor and mosquito infestations. It significantly undermines our traditional way of life and the quality
of life for all surrounding residents.
Our Demands
We demand that the government:
Correct the current procedure by ensuring fair competition, providing access to the existing master plan, and guaranteeing a transparent procurement process. Respect the EOP as a fundamental tool for spatial planning. Prioritize the needs of the local population by maintaining recreational opportunities and preventing development that solely serves tourism and private interests, while residents are relegated to Seru Pretu for leisure.
Respond to the requests submitted by Save Zakito under the Transparency Law (LOB) at the end of 2023 and in 2024, granting access to information. The lack of response reflects a troubling indifference and lack of respect for the rights of Curaçao’s citizens.
Future Actions
We, the Save Zakito Movement, are considering the following steps:
Submitting a formal request to the Public Prosecutor’s Office or the National Investigations Office to investigate the case and determine whether irregularities exist. Motivating other stakeholders and community organizations to join the fight for sustainable development on our island.
We remind all Curaçao residents to pay close attention to their voting choices in the elections on March 21. This election campaign offers a golden opportunity to demand inclusive development from political
parties.
It is high time to prioritize the well-being of all residents and respect for the unique identity and natural heritage of our island.
For fair, sustainable, and transparent development.
