How ethical is our military?
September 24, 2024
The Vrijwilligers Korps Curaçao (VKC) has been in the news for four consecutive days. There had been earlier reports, followed by a denial from the VKC, but now a new series of articles has emerged in the Antilliaans Dagblad.
The first article: "Er heerst onvrede onder VKC-officieren (1); Selectie Yamil Lasten in twijfel getrokken" (There is discontent among VKC officers (1); Selection of Yamil Lasten questioned). This suggests favoritism in appointing officers—hinting at a "family and friends" culture.
The second article: "Er heerst onvrede onder VKC-officieren (2); De legitimiteit van de commandant VKC" (There is discontent among VKC officers (2); The legitimacy of the VKC commander). It appears the commander appointing these officers may have already exceeded his term of service.
The third article: "Er heerst onvrede onder VKC-officieren (3); Fraude half miljoen" (There is discontent among VKC officers (3); Half a million in fraud). It’s now revealed that fraud occurred within the corps, but it has not been dealt with decisively.
Finally, "240 Uur taakstraf geëist; Politieagenten en VKC'er verschijnen voor de rechter" (240 hours of community service demanded; Police officers and VKC members appear in court). This case involves manslaughter from 2021.
When I put all this together, our military is in a significant crisis. But apparently, no one seems too concerned.
I sometimes think of the VKC as nothing more than a scouting group for grown-ups, but that would be a grave mistake. I vividly recall how the VKC and the police were called into action to ensure things "proceeded orderly" after the government fell in 2012. It was a reminder of how crucial it is to have a motivated and ethical military that serves both the people and democracy.
In this context, there is enough reason to intervene on time.
Miguel Goede
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