ORANJESTAD – In what is being described as a historic moment for Aruba’s political landscape, Aruba’s Prime Minister and AVP leader, Mike Eman, announced that he will step down as leader of the Aruban People’s Party (AVP) in September 2026 and relinquish the office of Prime Minister on January 1, 2027.
The announcement was made during a packed party meeting held at the AVP headquarters, where supporters and party members gathered to hear what Eman described as two important decisions that will mark the beginning of a new chapter for both the party and Aruba.
According to Eman, the transition will bring to a close an era during which he has led the AVP for 28 years and served as Aruba’s Prime Minister during three separate periods in government. His leadership has made him one of the most influential political figures in the island’s modern history.
Addressing party members, Eman said the decisions were taken with the future of the party and the country in mind. He emphasized the importance of preparing a new generation of leadership capable of guiding Aruba through future challenges while continuing the values and principles that have defined the AVP over the decades.
The announcement was met with strong reactions from party supporters, many of whom regard Eman as a central figure in Aruba’s political development. During his years at the helm, he played a key role in shaping economic, social, and governmental policies and remained one of the most recognizable faces in Aruban politics.
The AVP is expected to provide further details in the coming months regarding the leadership succession process and the transition leading up to Eman’s departure as party leader in September and as Prime Minister at the start of 2027.
The move signals a significant political transition for Aruba, as the island prepares for a change in leadership after nearly three decades under Eman’s guidance within the AVP.