WILLEMSTAD – Former Curaçao Prime Minister Stanley Betrian has once again voiced strong criticism of Finance Minister Javier Silvania’s handling of the National Ordinance on Gambling (LOK). In a detailed statement, Betrian accused the minister of ignoring fundamental concerns and pushing through legislation that, he claims, has serious flaws. He warned that these deficiencies threaten the integrity of Curaçao’s governance, its international reputation, and even the interests of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. 

Betrian referenced a motion from the Dutch Parliament, which called for stricter oversight of Curaçao’s gambling sector to combat criminal influence and money laundering. He criticized Minister Silvania for disregarding these warnings and argued that the current version of the LOK lacks adequate safeguards. According to Betrian, key recommendations from advisory bodies such as the Council of Advice (RvA) and the Social Economic Council (SER) have been ignored, leaving the legislation vulnerable to legal and administrative challenges. 

Concerns Over the Curaçao Gaming Authority 

A central point of Betrian’s criticism is the establishment of the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA). While Minister Silvania has previously asserted the CGA’s independence, Betrian argued that the authority remains too reliant on ministerial decisions and funding, violating international standards and exposing the sector to potential abuse. He also criticized the lack of transparency in appointing CGA personnel and pointed to the absence of objective, independent oversight mechanisms. 

Legislative Process Under Fire 

Betrian further accused the minister of failing to adhere to the General Principles of Proper Governance, such as thoroughly considering advice from independent bodies and providing robust justifications for deviations. He emphasized that a strong legislative process is essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring the law withstands judicial scrutiny. 

Minister Silvania Defends LOK 

Minister Silvania previously dismissed Betrian’s criticisms as baseless, claiming that 77% of the RvA’s recommendations were fully incorporated into the LOK and that any deviations were well-reasoned. He described the LOK as a vital step toward enhancing Curaçao’s international credibility in the gambling sector and tackling money laundering and other illegal practices. Silvania also highlighted the law’s economic importance, ending decades of unchecked privileges enjoyed by master license holders without direct benefits to the local population. 

Betrian’s Warning 

Betrian remains unconvinced, arguing that the measures lack the robustness needed to address the gambling sector’s challenges. He warned that rushing the LOK’s implementation could result in international sanctions or even a General Administrative Measure of the Kingdom (AMvRB), which would severely undermine Curaçao’s autonomy. 

Call for Revision 

In his latest response, Betrian has intensified the debate surrounding the LOK. He urged Curaçao’s government to return to the negotiating table and revise the legislative process. The former prime minister stressed that the law must not only be legally sound but also credible and sustainable both nationally and internationally.