WILLEMSTAD – The political party PAR has firmly denied claims made by Minister Charles Cooper regarding discussions with Members of Parliament about altering or eliminating the screening law for candidate ministers. 

In a radio interview last Saturday, Minister Cooper stated that he had spoken with all MPs about the proposed changes to the law and claimed that, based on those conversations, his proposal would pass Parliament with 21 votes in favor. 

PAR responded with surprise and rejection of this claim. In an official statement, the party clarified that none of its Members of Parliament have held discussions with Minister Cooper about any draft legislation to modify or abolish the screening law. 

The party emphasized that it is impossible for any MP to express an opinion on a legislative proposal that they have never seen, and for which they have not received any formal advice or documentation. 

PAR reiterated its strong belief in the importance of maintaining a screening law for candidate ministers, especially in a small society like Curaçao, where safeguarding the integrity of governance is vital. 

The party highlighted key principles of the law—such as disqualifying candidates with criminal records or private interests that could compromise impartiality—as long-established standards in the former Netherlands Antilles and Curaçao, even before the screening law was introduced in 2012. 

“These provisions do not restrict democratic rights,” PAR stated, “but rather protect them by ensuring transparency and accountability in government.” 

While acknowledging that the current law is not perfect, PAR affirmed its willingness to engage in constructive debate on how to interpret and improve the law, making it fairer and more effective in protecting governmental integrity. However, the party made clear that it does not support eliminating the screening law and is committed to ensuring its continued relevance and enforcement.