Suriname observed a solemn memorial ceremony on Monday at Fort Zeelandia to honor the fifteen victims brutally tortured and executed on December 8, 1982. The gathering brought together bereaved families, citizens, diplomats, and representatives from civil society organizations at the exact historical location where the executions occurred, serving as both remembrance and call for sustained vigilance.
Sunil Oemrawsingh, Chairman of the December 8, 1982 Foundation, led the emotionally charged ceremony. In his poignant address, he emphasized that commemoration extends beyond mere reflection, serving to strengthen national consciousness. “Remembering constitutes a moral duty,” Oemrawsingh stated. “It represents our collective promise that such atrocities must never recur in our society.”
The ceremony featured significant diplomatic presence, with ambassadors from the Netherlands, France, and the United States attending in traditional demonstration of support for human rights and justice values. King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands had previously confirmed that Ambassador Walther Oostelbos would lay a wreath on behalf of the Dutch nation—a gesture Oemrawsingh acknowledged as symbolizing the mutual respect characterizing the annual commemoration.
Oemrawsingh’s speech highlighted the persistent anguish surrounding one principal suspect who remains at large despite a definitive conviction. “What purpose does justice serve if punishments remain unenforced?” he questioned, stressing that crimes against humanity must not be subject to political pressure or granted clemency.
The foundation chairman referenced President Jennifer Simons’ 2024 statements asserting judicial independence from partisan interests. “Only a robust rule of law can ensure justice remains immune to political arbitrariness,” Oemrawsingh affirmed.
Following the addresses, bereaved families initiated the symbolic floral tribute at the memorial site, followed by ambassadors and other dignitaries. Citizens subsequently participated in the ritual, with many placing flowers in personal tribute.
The ceremony concluded in reflective silence, with participants collectively acknowledging the enduring scar that the December 1982 tragedy has left on Suriname’s historical consciousness.