WILLEMSTAD - An official investigation is being conducted under the authority of the Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM) into what has become known as the “tax forgiveness affair,” involving Minister of Finance Javier Silvania. While initially dismissed as rumors, the inquiry is now confirmed, as noted in a ruling by the Joint Court of Justice.
The controversy centers on allegations that Minister Silvania instructed the government’s tax collector to halt the collection of all established and pending tax assessments from 2017 and prior. According to the ruling, the Attorney General noted on August 30, 2024, that this matter was already under investigation by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and any points raised in a related complaint would be included in the inquiry.
The Role of Fundashon Dos Bui pa Kòrsou
The case was brought to public attention by Fundashon Dos Bui pa Kòrsou, a foundation established in May 2023. The organization is chaired by activist Yves Cooper, with former Governor and interim Prime Minister Stanley Betrian serving as its formal advisor. While the court has dismissed the foundation’s complaint on procedural grounds due to insufficient direct interest, the continuation of the judicial investigation into Minister Silvania’s actions is seen as a significant development.
Political and Social Fallout
The tax forgiveness controversy has sparked intense debate within both Curaçao’s political landscape and broader society. A Central Committee meeting of Parliament on this issue, held over a year ago, ended abruptly and only resumed in August this year. This session ultimately led to the collapse of the ruling coalition between the MFK and PNP parties. The PNP’s critical questioning of Silvania’s actions, including whether they could potentially constitute criminal behavior, was viewed by MFK as the final straw.
Despite the coalition’s collapse, the government of Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas has maintained power, now supported by three independent MPs: Zita Jesus-Leito (formerly PAR), Corine Djaoen-Genaro (formerly PNP), and Michelangelo Martines, whose seat is currently held by Anthony Godett following Martines’s arrest and detention.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The court ruling does not disclose the current status of the OM’s investigation into Minister Silvania. However, the case remains a hot-button issue, with calls for transparency and accountability growing louder. Public scrutiny continues, as the findings of the judicial investigation could have significant political and legal implications for the island.