WILLEMSTAD – The board of the National People's Party (PNP) has accepted the definitive withdrawal of former minister Ruisandro Cijntje from the party's leadership contest but has ordered an independent internal investigation into the allegations that prompted his departure.
In an official letter responding to Cijntje's resignation dated October 13, 2026, the newly elected PNP board expressed deep regret over his decision, particularly because he withdrew without first discussing his concerns with the new leadership.
PNP Board
The board confirmed that Cijntje's withdrawal is voluntary, unilateral, and final, leaving only one candidate in the race to become the party's next political leader.
According to the letter, the board contacted Cijntje on October 13 after receiving his resignation and appealed to him to remain in the contest, allowing party members to choose democratically between the two original candidates.
However, Cijntje informed the board that his decision was irreversible and that there was no possibility of reconsideration.
The party leadership said it had no alternative but to respect his decision.
The withdrawal leaves Dayanara Chin-A-Lien-Roozendaal as the sole remaining candidate for the PNP leadership.
The board acknowledged that Cijntje's departure means party members will no longer have the opportunity to choose between the two candidates who initially entered the race.
Nevertheless, it emphasized that the leadership election must continue in accordance with the party's statutes and internal regulations.
The Impact Committee, established by the previous board on August 31, 2026, under Article 45 of the party's statutes, remains responsible for preparing, organizing, and conducting the leadership election.
The new board has decided to formally notify the committee that only one candidate remains.
Preparations for the party's General Meeting on November 1, 2026, will continue, subject to the applicable party rules.
The presentation of the candidates' political visions, scheduled for Friday, October 16, will also proceed, according to the board.
At the same time, the PNP leadership has decided to investigate the concerns raised by Cijntje in his resignation letter.
The board said it had already conducted a preliminary assessment of several issues mentioned by the former minister. That assessment revealed differing accounts concerning certain statements, while insufficient verified information was available to reach definitive conclusions.
Consequently, the board will appoint an independent and impartial committee to investigate the allegations and other relevant matters.
The committee must submit its report no later than October 21, 2026.
According to the board, everyone involved must be given an opportunity to present their version of events.
The party leadership stressed that it would be inappropriate to draw conclusions or introduce changes to the electoral process based solely on allegations that have not yet been independently examined.
Any subsequent decisions must comply with the party's statutes and internal regulations.
The board also addressed the issue of freedom of expression within the party, noting that political contests inevitably involve differences of opinion and preferences for individual candidates.
It referred to Article 9 of Curaçao's Constitution, which protects freedom of expression, including the right to voice critical opinions.
However, the board emphasized that freedom of expression does not justify intimidation, hostility, or behavior that unnecessarily fuels internal conflict.
It stated that such conduct would not be tolerated.
The party leadership also pointed out that the position of political leader carries considerable responsibility, including the ability to deal with political pressure, disagreements, and persistent criticism.
At the same time, it recognized that every candidate has the right to evaluate their circumstances and decide whether to continue participating in an election.
The board expressed appreciation for Cijntje's contributions to the PNP, noting that he received 4,226 votes and previously served as Minister of Economic Development.
It also welcomed his decision to remain a member of the party despite withdrawing from the leadership contest.
The new board, which will serve from 2026 to 2028, emphasized that party unity remains one of its principal priorities.
According to the leadership, every member must feel valued, whether they contribute publicly or work behind the scenes.
The board said it hopes Cijntje will continue contributing his experience and knowledge to the PNP in an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation.
With the leadership election now reduced to one candidate and an internal investigation underway, the party faces an important period leading up to the October 21 investigative deadline and its November 1 General Meeting.
The board maintains that its priority is to preserve the integrity of the electoral process while addressing internal concerns through a transparent and impartial investigation.