WILLEMSTAD – PAR Member of Curaçao Parliament Quincy Girigorie has expressed concerns about proposed amendments to the island’s criminal law, particularly regarding the introduction of a financial guarantee for early release.
Girigorie stated that both opposition and coalition parties share the responsibility to carefully review legislation and make necessary adjustments to ensure fairness and effectiveness. He emphasized that from the outset, the proposal to modify the current Penal Code contained several weaknesses.
One of the main points of concern is the concept of a “bond” or financial payment that would allow detainees to be released earlier from prison. According to Girigorie, such a system could be risky if left under ministerial discretion and may lead to inequality in the justice system.
He warned that linking release to financial capacity could create a form of “class-based justice,” where individuals with greater financial means have an advantage over others.
Despite these concerns, Girigorie welcomed the response from Minister of Justice Shalten Hato and coalition members, noting that they have shown willingness to listen. He indicated that there is agreement to revise or remove the most controversial elements of the proposal.
The debate over the changes highlights broader discussions in Curaçao Parliament about maintaining equality before the law and ensuring that criminal justice policies remain fair and balanced.