ORANJESTAD — Evelyn Wever-Croes marked the International Day of Democracy, observed each year on September 15, with a message focusing on the importance of a strong Parliament, government accountability and respect for the voice of the people. The United Nations officially recognizes September 15 as the International Day of Democracy.
According to Wever-Croes, democracy is not limited to voting every four years, but also includes respect for the opposition, the rule of law, transparency and Parliament’s right to question and scrutinize the government.
In her statement, she expressed concern about situations in which parliamentary questions remain unanswered, public meetings are not convened or the opposition is not given sufficient room to perform its constitutional role. In her view, this weakens not only Parliament but democracy itself.
Wever-Croes stressed that political power needs checks and balances, governments must be accountable and differing opinions must be able to exist freely.
“A strong Parliament makes Aruba stronger,” she concluded.