WILLEMSTAD - The screening process for ministerial candidates for the Pisas II cabinet is moving at a sluggish pace, leading to frustration among coalition members and uncertainty for the parties involved. Despite candidate names being submitted in early September, there is still no indication of a swearing-in date two months later.
Under the National Ordinance on Integrity for (Candidate) Ministers, candidates must undergo an extensive vetting process, which includes a state security investigation, fiscal review, medical examination, and a probe into unusual financial transactions. Additionally, the candidates' business interests are also subject to scrutiny.
Prime Minister Gilmar ‘Pik’ Pisas, acting as the formateur, has confirmed that the process is not yet complete. The delay has fueled rumors of potential issues in the screening process, though no such problems have been officially confirmed.
In response to the prolonged timeline, Anthony Godett, a future Member of Parliament from the KEM party, has proposed introducing a maximum time limit for the screening process. This, he suggests, would prevent lengthy procedures and minimize speculation in future government formations.
The delays continue to cast uncertainty over the final composition of the Pisas II cabinet, leaving coalition partners eager for resolution and the public awaiting clarity on Curaçao’s next government.