WILLEMSTAD--Governor Mauritsz de Kort was sworn in on Friday and set out a clear vision for his tenure, a governorship that connects institutions and people, protects constitutional order, and preserves continuity across changing cabinets. In his address, De Kort said the role often appears split between national and Kingdom responsibilities, yet it falls to the governor to unite those parts.
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He described the office as both connector and stabilizing force in Kingdom relations, especially in periods when governments change frequently and institutional memory can fade. Since 10-10-10, Curaçao has experienced several cabinet transitions, while the Netherlands has held three elections in four years, a reminder of the turbulence that can test long-term cooperation.
De Kort called for openness, transparency, and close engagement with society. He does not want to be a governor who governs from behind a desk. He intends to visit communities, schools, healthcare institutions, and civil society, and to meet citizens directly.
He urged the media to keep him sharp, noting that journalism, like religious leaders and consuls, helps shape opinions, nurture values, and strengthen society. He framed his approach as “modern governorship,” rooted in good governance, mutual respect, and steady relationships within the Kingdom. The question, he said, is not whether the institution is of this time, but whether it moves with the times.
Emotion marked part of the ceremony as De Kort reflected on milestones that make people think of loved ones who are no longer present. He closed with thanks to family, friends, and his partner Rik, and ended with a simple message of service to the people of Curaçao. De Kort previously served as president of the Joint Court of Justice for twelve years, and succeeds Lucille George-Wout.
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