Minister Herdé: My role is more than just temporary

In an interview on Noticiacla LIVE with host Tito Laclé, Aruban Minister René Herdé emphasized that the work of government extends beyond simply executing the governing program. Herdé stressed that reorganization within the government is a necessary and ongoing process that must continue for the benefit of Aruba as a whole. The minister's remarks suggest that structural changes within government institutions are a key priority for the current administration. While the full scope of the reorganization was not detailed in the excerpt, Herdé's tone indicated a commitment to reform beyond routine policy implementation. His public appearance on a live news program signals an effort to communicate these goals directly to the Aruban public. The statement carries significance as government reorganizations can affect public services, employment, and administrative efficiency across the island.

Aruba Minister René Herdé has yet to appoint a new director for either the Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) or the Public Works Department (DOW), despite ongoing criticism that a lack of leadership is at the root of both agencies' problems. The minister has signaled that simply naming a new director will not be enough to resolve the deeper structural issues facing these two critical government departments. DIP and DOW are responsible for key infrastructure planning and public works projects across Aruba, making their effective leadership a matter of significant public concern. The vacancy at the top of both departments has raised questions about accountability and the pace of infrastructure development on the island. Herdé's position suggests he is approaching the leadership question cautiously, possibly seeking a broader reform strategy rather than a quick appointment. Critics, however, appear to argue that the absence of a director is itself a driver of dysfunction, and that delay is making matters worse. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between Aruba's executive branch and the operational readiness of its public infrastructure bodies.

AVP Member of Parliament Dennerich Kelly is calling for a long-term national strategy in Aruba that connects education, the labor market, opportunity, and the return and retention of Aruban talent. Kelly argues that while attracting diaspora professionals back to the island is an important first step, the true challenge lies in creating the conditions that make them want to stay. The parliamentarian is advocating for a coordinated vision that links schooling and career pathways to real opportunities on the island. Kelly's remarks highlight a broader concern shared by many small island nations — that highly educated locals leave for better opportunities abroad and rarely return permanently. Without structural reforms in education and employment, Kelly warns, recruitment efforts alone will not be enough to reverse the brain drain. The initiative reflects growing political attention in Aruba toward sustainable human capital development as a foundation for the island's long-term prosperity.