WILLEMSTAD – The so-called Bashi bonus, intended for civil servants, equivalent personnel, employees of government-subsidized institutions, and pensioners receiving AOV (old-age pension), is based on policy intentions outlined in the 2025 national budget and favorable 2024 financial results. That’s according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance in response to recent criticism from the Financial Supervisory Board (Cft), which claimed the bonus was not formally authorized by parliament. 

Despite this concern, the Cft responded positively to Curaçao’s first quarterly execution report for 2025. The government reported a budget surplus of 161 million guilders, which is 58 million more than the surplus recorded in the same period last year. The Cft also praised the improved clarity and transparency of the financial reporting. 

However, the Cft remains concerned about the January disbursement of the Bashi bonus. The watchdog argues that the payment lacked prior formal authorization from parliament. The Ministry of Finance, however, defended the move, stating that the bonus serves as compensation for rising living costs and past cuts to employment conditions in the public sector. 

The government plans to incorporate the bonus payout and the Cft's comments in an amended version of the 2025 budget. Once approved by the Netherlands, this revised budget will be submitted to the Council of Advice and subsequently presented to parliament for approval. 

The Bashi bonus continues to stir debate between fiscal prudence and social relief, as the government seeks to balance economic responsibility with support for its public workforce and retirees.