How ethical is our military?

How ethical is our military?

September 24, 2024

The Vrijwilligers Korps Curaçao (VKC) has been in the news for four consecutive days. There had been earlier reports, followed by a denial from the VKC, but now a new series of articles has emerged in the Antilliaans Dagblad.

The first article: "Er heerst onvrede onder VKC-officieren (1); Selectie Yamil Lasten in twijfel getrokken" (There is discontent among VKC officers (1); Selection of Yamil Lasten questioned). This suggests favoritism in appointing officers—hinting at a "family and friends" culture.

The second article: "Er heerst onvrede onder VKC-officieren (2); De legitimiteit van de commandant VKC" (There is discontent among VKC officers (2); The legitimacy of the VKC commander). It appears the commander appointing these officers may have already exceeded his term of service.

The third article: "Er heerst onvrede onder VKC-officieren (3); Fraude half miljoen" (There is discontent among VKC officers (3); Half a million in fraud). It’s now revealed that fraud occurred within the corps, but it has not been dealt with decisively.

Finally, "240 Uur taakstraf geëist; Politieagenten en VKC'er verschijnen voor de rechter" (240 hours of community service demanded; Police officers and VKC members appear in court). This case involves manslaughter from 2021.

When I put all this together, our military is in a significant crisis. But apparently, no one seems too concerned.

I sometimes think of the VKC as nothing more than a scouting group for grown-ups, but that would be a grave mistake. I vividly recall how the VKC and the police were called into action to ensure things "proceeded orderly" after the government fell in 2012. It was a reminder of how crucial it is to have a motivated and ethical military that serves both the people and democracy.

In this context, there is enough reason to intervene on time.

Miguel Goede