WILLEMSTAD – The MAN/PIN faction in the Curaçao Parliament is seeking clarification from Minister Kimberley Lew-Jen-Tai of the Ministry of Governance, Planning, and Public Service (BPD) regarding the safety of the government’s digital infrastructure, following a series of recent cyberattacks. In a letter dated August 5 and a press release on August 10, the faction is requesting more information about cyber incidents involving the Tax Authority, the Joint Court of Justice, the Ministry of Education, and the ORV (Training Institute for Law Enforcement & Public Safety), all of which were recently targeted by hackers. 

Threats to Digital Security and National Safety 

The faction warns that these cyberattacks not only pose a threat to digital security but could also lead to the leak of personal data, potentially endangering national security. 

MAN/PIN stresses its support for technology and economic innovation, such as the recently announced plans for a digital AI platform for the Caribbean. However, the faction argues that ensuring robust cybersecurity and the coordination of government services must be prioritized before pushing forward with digital initiatives. 

37 Questions Raised 

The letter contains a total of 37 questions. At its core, MAN/PIN seeks to know whether the recent cyberattacks actually took place, which systems were affected, how much personal data may have been compromised, and the extent of the financial damage. 

The faction also asks what preventive and recovery measures have been taken, how coordination between ministries and other government agencies is being managed, and whether a national or sector-specific Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) or Cyber Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) has been active. 

Ensuring Protection of Critical Infrastructure 

Additionally, the faction inquires about the protection of critical infrastructure, such as energy and water companies, hospitals, and government-run businesses. They want to know whether incidents are reported to regulators and security agencies and if there are current plans to ensure the continuity of digital services. 

Lastly, MAN/PIN seeks information on structural improvements in legislation, training, and oversight to prevent future cyberattacks. 

Regular Updates and Transparency Requested 

MAN/PIN is also calling for the government to periodically update Parliament on the state of digital security within all government services and companies. The faction argues that transparency is essential to maintaining public trust and preventing further risks as the government moves forward with digitalization efforts.