WILLEMSTAD – The opposition factions PAR and MAN in the Curaçao Parliament have formally requested an urgent public meeting with Minister of Justice Shalten Hato to address growing concerns about crime, armed robberies, murders, theft and the general sense of insecurity among residents.
In a letter addressed to Parliament President Brownbill, the two factions invoke Article 64 of Parliament's Rules of Order to request that the Minister of Justice appear before Parliament as soon as possible to explain the government's approach to combating crime and restoring public safety.
According to PAR and MAN, Curaçao is facing a troubling security situation in which robberies, murders, firearm-related incidents and other forms of violence are placing increasing pressure on the population's sense of safety.
The factions argue that insecurity is affecting not only public streets but also residential neighborhoods, businesses and people's homes.
Opposition Demands Concrete Action, Not Just Crime Statistics
In their letter, PAR and MAN emphasize that public safety should not be treated merely as a subject of political debate but as a fundamental responsibility of the government.
They argue that every resident of Curaçao has the right to live peacefully without constantly fearing becoming a victim of crime.
The opposition factions also question whether the government is doing enough to address the security challenges facing the island.
According to the letter, presenting crime statistics alone is insufficient if the government does not explain what those figures mean for the everyday experiences of residents.
PAR and MAN want the Minister of Justice to provide Parliament with a clear account of the measures currently being implemented, the results achieved so far and any additional initiatives being planned to improve public safety.
The factions are particularly interested in whether existing policies are producing measurable improvements and what further action the government intends to take.
Questions About Police Staffing, Patrol Vehicles and Budget
Another major concern raised in the letter involves the operational capacity of the Curaçao Police Force (KPC).
PAR and MAN want clarification about the challenges confronting the police organization, including staffing levels, the availability of patrol vehicles, equipment, financial resources and other operational requirements.
The factions believe Parliament must have a clear understanding of whether the police have sufficient personnel and resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
The requested meeting would give the Minister of Justice an opportunity to explain the current situation within the police organization and identify any obstacles affecting its ability to respond to criminal activity.
The letter does not provide specific figures concerning police staffing shortages, patrol vehicle availability or budgetary deficiencies. Instead, the factions are requesting that the minister provide this information during the parliamentary meeting.
Crime and Public Safety Must Be Discussed Openly
PAR and MAN insist that the security situation should be addressed in a public parliamentary session rather than exclusively behind closed doors.
They argue that residents who experience the consequences of crime have a right to know what the government is doing to protect them.
According to the factions, transparency is essential because the issue affects the daily lives of individuals, families and business owners throughout Curaçao.
They emphasize that residents should be able to walk through their neighborhoods, go to work, attend school, operate businesses and sleep in their own homes without fear.
The opposition describes security as a fundamental right rather than a privilege.
From Political Promises to Measurable Results
The factions conclude their request by calling for a shift from political discussions and promises toward concrete action and demonstrable results.
They maintain that the government must be held accountable for its public safety policies and explain how those policies are being translated into effective measures against crime.
PAR and MAN are therefore asking Parliament's President to invite Minister Hato to an urgent public meeting at the earliest possible opportunity.
During that session, the minister would be expected to provide information about the government's crime prevention and enforcement strategies, the resources available to the police and the additional measures being considered to address insecurity.
The request comes as public safety remains a significant concern in Curaçao, with the opposition seeking greater parliamentary scrutiny of the government's response to violent crime and property offenses.
No date for the requested meeting has been announced, and the letter does not indicate whether Parliament's leadership has already approved the request.