A new debate over parliamentary transparency has emerged in Curaçao, after PAR faction member Shaheen Elhage asked Parliament President Fergino Brownbill to explain the handling of unanswered correspondence submitted to the legislature.

In a letter reported on October 12, Elhage raised concerns about two letters that former Health and Social Affairs Minister Stanley Bodok reportedly sent to Parliament on November 11 and December 27, 2024. According to Elhage, neither letter received a response. The correspondence raised questions about the state of democracy in Curaçao.

Elhage is seeking details about how many letters Parliament receives, how many receive replies, and what procedures govern their handling. He also wants clarification about who is responsible for acknowledging submissions and what response deadlines apply.

The PAR representative cited Article 7 of Curaçao’s constitutional framework, which safeguards the right to submit written requests to public authorities. He warned that unanswered correspondence could weaken public confidence in Parliament and democratic institutions.

The questions place a spotlight on parliamentary administration, public accountability and the processes residents and officials rely on when communicating with elected institutions.

The key issue now is whether Parliament will clarify its procedures and explain how it ensures that formal correspondence receives appropriate attention.