WILLEMSTAD - The political party MAN-PIN has submitted a new draft law aimed at combating corruption within the government and protecting whistleblowers who report wrongdoing. The proposed legislation, titled “Lei Basha Bou” (literally “Protect the Builder”), seeks to create stronger safeguards for civil servants and citizens who expose cases of corruption or integrity violations.
The bill represents an amendment to existing regulations for public sector employees, expanding both the scope of those covered and the channels available for reporting misconduct.
Broader Reporting Options
Under the proposed law, civil servants, contract workers, interns, and users of public services will have several official avenues to report corruption or breaches of integrity. Importantly, those who file reports will be protected against retaliation.
Government employees will be allowed to report suspected corruption directly to their immediate supervisor or to any minister of their choice. In cases involving potential criminal conduct, reports may also be made to the Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM).
The law also extends beyond civil servants: citizens and external contractors working with government institutions will be able to submit reports to a department head, minister, the OM, or the Ombudsman.
Strong Whistleblower Protections
The duty of confidentiality does not apply when reporting corruption or integrity violations. Whistleblowers will be granted strong legal protection, with explicit prohibitions against any form of reprisal or discrimination.
The proposed law aligns with international transparency standards, including those of Transparency International, and encourages public servants and citizens alike to come forward. If a whistleblower faces retaliation, legal fees will be covered by the government should court action be necessary.
Triggered by Recent Events
The introduction of the Lei Basha Bou was reportedly accelerated by the recent controversy between former Finance Minister Javier Silvania (MFK) and Tax Receiver Alfonso Trona, a conflict centered around allegations of corruption and how such claims should be reported within government institutions.
The proposal will first be reviewed by the Council of Advice. After potential revisions, the Curaçao Parliament (Staten) is expected to formally debate and vote on the bill.
If approved, the Lei Basha Bou would mark a major step forward in institutional integrity and whistleblower protection, setting a new standard for transparency and accountability in Curaçao’s public sector.
