Assembly member Asis Gajadien has expressed deep concerns regarding the recent handling of pardon requests submitted to President Jennifer Simons. Gajadien emphasized that the process must be conducted with “utmost care” to safeguard the rule of law and Suriname’s international reputation. He highlighted that Article 109 of the Constitution explicitly requires the president to seek advice from the judge who imposed the sentence or their successor before granting any pardon. “This provision is not a mere formality but a cornerstone of our democratic legal system,” Gajadien stated. “It ensures judicial independence and public trust in fair legal proceedings.” Gajadien further stressed that pardons are exceptional legal remedies, reserved for “extraordinary circumstances involving humanitarian or equity considerations.” He warned against using pardons as political tools or undermining judicial authority. “The manner of application, through political platforms, adds a concerning dimension to this issue,” he noted. Gajadien urged the president to consider not only legal requirements but also societal interests and Suriname’s international credibility when addressing pending pardon requests. He cautioned that premature or inadequately justified pardons could damage the government’s image and send the wrong signal to the international community, which closely monitors Suriname’s commitment to good governance and integrity. “Society deserves the assurance that justice is administered fairly, transparently, and without bias,” Gajadien concluded, calling on the coalition and the president to prioritize the rule of law, social stability, and the moral authority of the office above all else.