Court ruling on e-steps expected within two weeks

ORANJESTAD – Justice Minister Arthur Dowers expects greater clarity within the next two weeks regarding the legal dispute over the operation of e-steps in Aruba. Speaking in an interview with Tito Laclé of Noticiacla, Dowers said the government is awaiting a court decision after operators challenged the enforcement measures. According to the minister, the government followed every legal step before taking action. "We followed the legal procedure. We first informed the operators that their activities were illegal, gave them the opportunity to respond, and then notified them that a penalty payment would be imposed," Dowers said.

The operators argued in court that they could face bankruptcy if the government proceeds with enforcement. Dowers rejected that argument. "In my view, they cannot meet their obligations because they are operating an illegal business and receiving illegal income."

The operators have now submitted their final documents, and the government is preparing its response before the court makes a ruling, which Dowers expects within approximately two weeks.

The minister stressed that even if the court addresses the penalty payments, that does not change the legal status of the activity. "The fact that the activity is illegal does not mean the government or the police cannot act. The police still have the authority to enforce the law against illegal activities."

Dowers said the government will continue to respect the judicial process while enforcing the law in accordance with the court's decision.