KRALENDIJK--Dutch State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Eric van der Burg has raised concerns about political interference in Bonaire's civil service and delays in government decision-making, warning that the island administration must improve its performance and deliver results on essential public services.
Speaking during a media conference alongside Island Governor John Soliano, Van der Burg said he had discussed these concerns directly with Bonaire's Executive Council following an earlier letter outlining issues requiring attention.
The State Secretary said he had received reports that Island Council members and individuals outside the elected administration were interfering in the work of civil servants, contrary to established administrative procedures.
He explained that Bonaire's governance structure assigns specific responsibilities to elected representatives and executive officials. Residents elect the Island Council, which oversees the administration, while executive officials are responsible for directing the civil service.
Van der Burg emphasized that political figures who do not hold executive authority should not interfere directly with government employees. He did not identify the individuals allegedly involved or provide specific examples.
The State Secretary also expressed concern that government decisions were taking too long and producing insufficient results, particularly in areas affecting residents' daily lives.
He identified waste management company Selibon, public transportation and financial administration among the matters requiring attention.
Van der Burg said the Netherlands has a legitimate interest in ensuring progress because it has provided funding for several projects.
He specifically highlighted the importance of public transportation for elderly residents, schoolchildren and households unable to afford private vehicles.
During the media conference, he confirmed that Bonaire's first public transportation bus had arrived and that he personally witnessed it being unloaded from a ship.
The vehicle is expected to undergo testing before beginning passenger service in January 2027. Additional buses are planned as part of the eventual transportation network.
Fifteen-Point Agreement to Improve Governance
Van der Burg confirmed that Bonaire's Executive Council had committed to a 15-point governance agreement with the Netherlands, covering administrative improvements and essential public services.
The agreement addresses public transportation, energy, waste management and financial matters, with specific actions and implementation deadlines.
Governor Soliano said the arrangement is more concrete than previous agreements because it establishes measurable commitments and timelines, with several actions expected by mid-2027.
Both governments will monitor implementation to determine whether the commitments are being fulfilled.
Van der Burg emphasized that accountability applies to both parties. Bonaire must implement its agreed responsibilities, while the Netherlands must deliver the support it has committed to providing.
The Island Council retains its responsibility for overseeing Bonaire's Executive Council, while the Dutch government will monitor matters covered by its agreements with the island administration.
Governor Acknowledges Administrative Challenges
Governor Soliano acknowledged the challenges facing Bonaire but said they must be considered within the context of the island's rapid growth.
He explained that Bonaire's population and development have expanded faster than its administrative institutions have been able to adapt, placing considerable demands on government.
Unlike municipalities in the European Netherlands, Bonaire does not benefit from the same supporting administrative structures, including provincial governments and water authorities.
As a result, many responsibilities are concentrated within the island government.
Soliano stressed that these circumstances should not excuse delays or inadequate performance but should inform efforts to strengthen the administration.
He also emphasized that good governance involves more than identifying shortcomings. Its ultimate purpose is to ensure residents receive reliable services and equal treatment.
According to the Governor, government procedures must apply fairly to everyone, regardless of personal relationships or political affiliations.
He said strengthening public administration requires cooperation among the Island Council, Executive Council, civil servants and the wider community.
Netherlands to Support Stronger Civil Service
Van der Burg confirmed that the Netherlands intends to assist Bonaire in strengthening its civil service, recognizing the substantial workload facing government departments.
The discussions also covered the March 2027 Island Council elections and legislation expanding the size of representative bodies in Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius.
The changes will also permit an additional executive official, potentially increasing administrative capacity and improving decision-making.
Both Van der Burg and Soliano stressed that governance reforms must ultimately produce improvements residents can experience.
The 15-point agreement will serve as a framework for monitoring progress, with both governments expected to fulfill their commitments.
For Bonaire, the immediate challenge is translating these agreements into faster decisions, stronger institutions and improved public services while ensuring that political interference does not undermine the civil service.
Van der Burg maintained that the Dutch government will continue monitoring implementation, while Soliano expressed confidence that cooperation and local commitment can produce the necessary improvements.
