Not Fit for the Screen

Not Fit for the Screen

24 December 2025

I listen to local television more than I watch it, usually until about nine o’clock. On Mondays, I watch a bit longer, tuning in to Jürgen’s programme. Last night, however, I found myself watching more than usual while I was actually just listening. And I noticed something: a trend.

Christmas messages have become short films. Many of them are well-made. They come from banks, government-owned companies, ministers, and the Parliament. They showcase the abundance of talent that has developed on the island. But these are clearly not cheap productions. And they are broadcast during prime time.

On today’s front page of the Antilliaans Dagblad the headline reads: “1.2 billion overspent; ARC: 2023 budget far exceeded.” This is not fit for the screen. How is this possible? Where were Parliament, the CFT, and the other checks and balances? To me, it is evident that increasing the AOV is not affordable.

It brings to mind the e-book De prijs van de autonomie (The Price of Autonomy). The book purports to be a critical evaluation of fifteen years of Curaçao’s autonomy within the Kingdom. However, in reality, it is the established order writing as if the country — despite them — still has not become what it should be.

I fear there is neither space nor time left for Curaçao. I fear this film will not have a happy ending.

Miguel Goede