Wendrick Cicilia officially assumed leadership of the AVP during the party’s congress on October 4th, 2026, taking over from Mike Eman after Eman spent 25 years at the helm of the party. In his speech, Cicilia expressed gratitude for Eman’s legacy of service and reaffirmed his commitment to human dignity, solidarity and the well-being of the community.
Cicilia described the transition as both an honor and a responsibility, which he said he accepts with humility, respect for previous generations and confidence in Aruba’s future.
“Leadership transition means honoring the past, learning from it and taking the best from it to build the future,” Cicilia said, emphasizing that the AVP is a party with a long history and track record, built on a foundation that continues to guide its work.
Gratitude to Mike Eman
Cicilia dedicated part of his speech to Mike Eman, thanking him for his years of service, the responsibility he carried and his contribution to the AVP’s political vision. He highlighted how Eman consistently reminded the party that politics must be guided by the common good and by the realities of people who work every day, raise their children, care for their parents and strive for a better future.
“Thank you for showing us that leadership is not about power, but rather the desire to serve,” Cicilia said.
He also pointed to the importance of maintaining direct contact with the community, showing love for others and engaging in constructive dialogue, saying these lessons will continue to guide the party in its next chapter.
A commitment to the community
For the AVP’s new leader, the transition comes with an even stronger commitment to everyone who makes up the community. Investing in Aruba’s progress and well-being, he said, is an ongoing responsibility that must create opportunities and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Cicilia emphasized the dignity and potential of every individual, including children struggling at school, families working hard to make ends meet, pensioners, people with disabilities, small business owners and young people with new ideas.
“If part of Aruba is left behind, Aruba cannot truly progress,” he said, stressing that economic progress must benefit the wider community.
Listen, unite and take responsibility
Cicilia emphasized that leadership requires passion, love for the people and a willingness to listen. He acknowledged that no leader has all the answers and that the wisdom needed to continue building Aruba can be found among its elders, young people, professionals, workers, entrepreneurs, teachers and families.
According to Cicilia, the AVP’s next chapter will combine continuity in its values with new ideas, courage in action and accountability for results. This commitment includes protecting nature and culture, creating opportunities for young people and taking responsibility for future generations.
“I accept the responsibility of this moment with humility. With respect for those who came before us. With confidence in those who stand beside us today. And with hope for those who will come after us,” Cicilia said.
He concluded his speech with a call for unity and service, describing love for Aruba as the force that will bring the party together in its next chapter.
