Curaçao Gaming Control Board Rejects Corruption Allegations in Licensing Reforms
The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) has strongly denied allegations of corruption and misconduct surrounding its licensing reform process. These accusations, brought forward by Luigi Faneyte of the Real Alternative Party, center on claims of financial mismanagement and improper issuance of gambling licenses under the updated regulatory framework.
Allegations Against Licensing Reforms
On November 25, opposition politician Luigi Faneyte filed a report with the attorney general’s office, accusing Curaçao’s finance minister, Javier Silvania, of interfering with the gambling license process. Faneyte alleged that some licenses were issued without a legal basis, resulting in financial losses for the jurisdiction and raising concerns about potential corruption.
The GCB, however, categorically denied these allegations. “The GCB has the authority to grant, amend, suspend temporarily, revoke, or deny responsibility to the board in December 2019, ensuring that the licensing process operates independently of political influence,” the regulator stated.
Curaçao’s New Licensing Framework
Curaçao’s revamped gambling regulation, the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK), was introduced in July 2022 to modernize the jurisdiction’s gambling industry. The framework requires all existing operators to reapply under stricter compliance protocols, with measures aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability.
Although the reform process was initially expected to conclude by the end of 2023, a surge in licensing applications caused delays. By September 2023, operators were mandated to reapply under the updated system, which includes comprehensive reviews such as sanction screenings, evaluations of business plans, and detailed website inspections.
The GCB emphasized that the new framework ensures only credible operators are granted licenses, with stringent due diligence serving as a cornerstone of the reform.
Addressing Financial Misconduct Claims
Faneyte further alleged that the licensing reforms have facilitated money laundering within the jurisdiction. The GCB rejected these claims, asserting that licensing fees are deposited directly into an official government bank account.
“There is no scope for mismanagement. The assertion that funds may have been embezzled is therefore not correct. Once the payment has been received, the license will be granted by the GCB,” the regulator clarified.
To prevent financial misconduct, the GCB requires all payments to be made through secure, official channels, ensuring accountability and eliminating the potential for fund misappropriation.
Political Tensions Amid Allegations
The accusations against the GCB have surfaced amidst growing political tensions in Curaçao. As a member of the opposition, Faneyte’s claims may reflect broader dissatisfaction with the administration’s policies rather than concrete evidence of wrongdoing.
In its statement, the GCB addressed the allegations comprehensively, reaffirming its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency in its licensing process.
