WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao Court of First Instance has ruled against journalist Dwight Albert Jozeph Rudolphina in his case against Radio Mas 99 B.V., upholding his suspension until after the March 21 elections. Rudolphina, the station’s editor-in-chief and a well-known news presenter, challenged his forced leave, claiming it was an unjust disciplinary measure. However, the court found that the station had a legitimate and serious reason for his suspension.
Rudolphina, who has worked at Radio Mas since 2001, was informed in January 2025 that his vacation was extended until March 24, 2025, with full salary. The station cited his public disassociation from the elections as the reason. Rudolphina objected, arguing that his removal was unfair and disproportionate, and sought legal action to resume his duties. He also demanded a public apology from Radio Mas and financial compensation.
Court’s Justification for Suspension
The court determined that the forced leave should be classified as a suspension rather than a vacation. However, it ruled that Radio Mas had valid grounds for its decision.
Radio Mas argued that the suspension was necessary to ensure neutral and objective election coverage. The station expressed concerns that Rudolphina might favor certain politicians or inject personal opinions into broadcasts. The court found this concern reasonable, especially since Rudolphina had openly stated on-air and in private messages that he preferred to avoid election-related coverage.
Additionally, the station cited previous incidents where Rudolphina allegedly made unfounded statements on air, including discussions about COVID-19 vaccinations, a military officer’s murder, and a prison preacher’s misconduct. In December 2024, he had received a formal warning after ignoring instructions to avoid certain topics.
The court ruled that Radio Mas had the right to set editorial policies and that, given the station’s responsibility for its broadcasts, it was justified in suspending Rudolphina. His demand for reinstatement and an apology was denied, and he was ordered to pay NAf 1,500 in legal costs.
