Suriname’s government announced there will be no state funeral for former president Desi Bouterse, who died this week at 79 while a fugitive from justice. Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin stated there would also be no national mourning, based on advice to President Chan Santokhi.
The government of Suriname has officially decided against holding a state funeral for Desi Bouterse, the nation’s former president, who passed away this week at the age of 79. Bouterse died as a fugitive from justice, which has led current President Chan Santokhi to announce that there will be neither a state funeral nor a period of national mourning. Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin conveyed this decision during a press conference, stating that it followed advice received and the president’s authority to make such determinations.
Desi Bouterse, who ruled Suriname as a military dictator during a controversial period in the 1980s, had significant influence on the country’s political landscape. Despite being democratically elected later in his career, Bouterse was convicted of drug trafficking charges and was facing a long prison sentence and various human rights accusations. His death has prompted the Surinamese government to reassess how to officially recognize his legacy, revealing a deep divide in national sentiment regarding his leadership.
In summary, Suriname’s government has taken a definitive stance regarding the death of Desi Bouterse, deciding against a state funeral and national mourning due to his status as a fugitive from justice. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to distancing itself from his controversial legacy and acknowledges the complex historical narrative surrounding his tenure as president.
Original Source: www.indianagazette.com
