Since the start of Carls Manuel’s term as Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague, the Curaçaohuis—our island’s official representation in the Netherlands—has been embroiled in controversy, dysfunction, and now, a growing list of serious allegations. It is no longer a matter of political rivalry or internal gossip. The questions being raised demand urgent, independent scrutiny.
The most recent accusations reported by TV Direct include inflated invoices sent to the Parliament of Curaçao for services such as transportation during official delegations. While the Curaçaohuis has denied any wrongdoing, the Parliament’s clerk’s office isn’t convinced—and rightly so. The request for documentation is the bare minimum. When public funds are involved, transparency is not optional; it is a duty.
Yet this is only the surface. Parliamentarian Giselle Mc William (MAN-PIN) has rightly demanded answers from Prime Minister Gilmar ‘Pik’ Pisas, not only about financial mismanagement but also about persistent internal complaints from Curaçaohuis staff. These include allegations of sexual misconduct, intimidation, questionable dealings with vendors, and even the illegal rental of rooms in the official residence. These are not minor issues—they are red flags that cannot be ignored.
Perhaps more disturbing is that Minister Manuel was reappointed, despite his previous term being plagued by similar concerns and a toxic work environment. Why was he allowed to return to such a critical post, representing the people of Curaçao abroad?
The civil servants’ union ABVO has now stepped in to investigate, after whistleblowers were reportedly met with silence in Willemstad. Silence in the face of abuse and corruption is not just negligence—it’s complicity.
Curaçao deserves better.
This is not merely about Carls Manuel. This is about governance, accountability, and public trust. It is about ensuring that our diplomatic offices—extensions of our national image—are not reduced to personal playgrounds for unqualified or ethically compromised appointees. The Curaçaohuis should embody professionalism, transparency, and service—not scandal.
We join the call for an independent investigation—one that reviews both the financial operations and the workplace culture inside the Curaçaohuis. If the facts confirm what is being alleged, then it’s time to remove Carls Manuel and replace him with someone who is competent, respected, and above all, ethical.
Curaçao cannot afford to let this fester any longer. The people deserve to know what is happening with their money, their institutions, and their representatives abroad.
It’s time to clean house.
