Mike Eman transfers AVP leadership to Wendrick Cicilia

Mike Eman has officially transferred the leadership of the Aruban People's Party (AVP) to Wendrick Cicilia during the AVP 2026 Congress. Eman, who has led the party for 25 years since 2003, described the move as a generational transition of responsibility rather than a departure from service to Aruba. He will continue to serve as Prime Minister of Aruba until January 2027.

Cicilia, the new leader, emphasized that the transition is rooted in the party’s Christian democratic ideals, including solidarity, human dignity, and sustainability. He stated his intention to lead the organization into a new era, focusing on ensuring economic progress reaches every household and neighborhood in Aruba.

During the congress, Minister Melvin Wyatt-Ras highlighted Eman’s long-term dedication to the country, noting his historical contributions to social security, health care, and pension systems. The transition is framed by the party as an ‘Era of Relay,’ aimed at combining the experience of previous generations with the energy and creativity of new leadership to address modern policy and legislative challenges.