For generations, the stereotype that ‘Surinamers are lazy’ has been deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness. In recent years, another cliché has emerged: ‘Surinamers avoid entrepreneurship and prefer government jobs.’ However, it is time to challenge these narratives and recognize that the root of Suriname’s stagnation lies not with its people but with successive governments since 1975. Politicians often campaign on promises of fostering entrepreneurship, yet their actions frequently contradict these pledges. Behind the scenes, small and emerging businesses are discouraged or even dismantled to protect the interests of party sponsors and influential capitalists. What is most troubling is that the supporters of these political parties are often ordinary citizens—economically vulnerable and dependent individuals who may not fully grasp how their leaders systematically oppress them, sometimes even fueling division and racial tensions. As a society, we remain fixated on ethnic and political differences rather than addressing the true causes of our stagnation. If Suriname is to achieve genuine progress, its people—regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion—must hold their leaders accountable. Only by demanding responsibility for their policies and choices can we build a fairer and more prosperous Suriname. Sranan sa wini!