WILLEMSTAD - The government of Curaçao has officially collapsed following tensions within the ruling coalition over the issue of tax debt forgiveness. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas, from the MFK party, confirmed the government's fall after the PNP, a coalition partner, withdrew its support.
The political crisis began earlier this week when two PNP parliamentarians sharply criticized Finance Minister Javier Silvania during a parliamentary session. Their concerns centered around Silvania’s decision to forgive overdue tax debts, a move that was seen as controversial. The two PNP members accused the minister and the MFK party of being untrustworthy, fueling the already simmering tension within the coalition.
In response, the MFK party issued a formal statement declaring that they no longer wished to work with the two PNP parliamentarians. Soon after, the PNP also announced its decision to end the coalition partnership.
With elections scheduled for March next year, the MFK is now looking to form a new government with a narrow majority. Negotiations are reportedly underway with independent MP Zita Jesus-Leito (former PAR MP) and KEM, a one-person faction, in an attempt to secure the necessary parliamentary support.
The political collapse has thrown Curaçao into a state of uncertainty, as the island braces for new elections and the potential formation of a fragile interim government.