WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao government will proceed with an independent investigation into the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA), with Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas stating that the results should provide clarity about the agreement with Random Consulting Limited and payments connected to the online gaming sector.
According to Pisas, ten internationally recognized investigative firms will be approached for the assignment. One of these companies will eventually be selected to investigate, among other issues, the payments made by CGA to the Maltese company and the questions raised about the amounts involved.
The investigation follows a public dispute between Finance Minister Charles Cooper and former Finance Minister Javier Silvania. Cooper questioned the financial arrangements surrounding the gaming sector and announced that an investigation would be initiated. Silvania has defended the reforms implemented during his time as minister and has challenged statements made about the payments.
Pisas said he has no objection to the investigation and wants to wait for the findings before drawing conclusions.
CGA governance under review
The prime minister also addressed the internal functioning of the Curaçao Gaming Authority. According to Pisas, the organization must ensure that meetings of its supervisory board take place regularly and that there is greater structure in its governance and oversight.
He expressed hope that the commissioners of the Gaming Authority will meet more frequently and consistently to ensure proper supervision of the organization.
Pisas also explained that he does not personally have the agreement with Random Consulting in his possession. According to him, the decision to publish the contract lies with the Curaçao Gaming Authority, which operates as an independent administrative body at a distance from government.
Awaiting facts
The prime minister emphasized that the investigation should determine the facts surrounding the contract, the payments and the services provided.
He said the government should allow the process to take place and avoid reaching conclusions before the investigation is completed.
The controversy has created political tensions within MFK, but Pisas maintained that the party remains united. He said the focus should now be on improving internal communication and ensuring that disagreements are addressed through dialogue rather than public confrontation.