Court upholds dismissal of DIP civil servant over conflict of interest

ORANJESTAD – Aruba's Civil Service Appeals Board has upheld the dismissal of a former employee of the Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP), ruling that he abused his position and improperly favored family members in the allocation of government land.

The court found that the employee was involved in procedures that resulted in government leasehold plots being granted to his daughter and another relative, despite questions about their eligibility. He also failed to enforce land-use regulations and was linked to the improper use of government land designated for agricultural purposes.

Although an allegation of document forgery was dismissed on appeal, the court ruled that the proven conflict of interest, abuse of office and violations of official duties amounted to serious misconduct. As a result, the dismissal imposed by the Governor in January 2025 remains in effect.