The sudden passing of former Surinamese President Chan Santokhi has prompted an outpouring of condolences and public recognition from the nation’s Party for Law and Development (PRO), with party leaders hailing Santokhi as a fearless champion of the rule of law and a unifying force for Suriname’s diverse society.
PRO Chair Gerold Sewcharan confirmed that the news of Santokhi’s death came as a profound, unexpected shock to the country’s political community, noting that Santokhi had appeared in full health and remained active in public life just days before his passing. On Saturday, a full delegation of PRO’s national board traveled to the VHP (Vereenigde Hindostaanse Partij) party headquarters, known locally as De Olifant, to sign the official condolence register honoring Santokhi’s legacy.
Across his decades-long public career, which spanned roles as a senior law enforcement official and a national elected leader, Santokhi consistently demonstrated unwavering courage and commitment to upholding Suriname’s legal order, Sewcharan emphasized. “He never shied away from standing up to defend Suriname’s rule of law, and that commitment deserves lasting recognition,” the PRO chair said. Even during his tenure as President of Suriname, Sewcharan added, Santokhi centered his policy agenda on strengthening independent legal institutions, maintaining that public safety and equal legal protection are non-negotiable foundations for sustained national development – a principle Santokhi promoted consistently throughout his time in public life.
Beyond his advocacy for the rule of law, PRO highlights Santokhi’s unique ability to bridge divides across Suriname’s multi-ethnic society. In the lead-up to the country’s 2025 general elections, Santokhi successfully united diverse ethnic factions within the VHP, demonstrating his skill at building consensus across differing communities, the party noted.
PRO has extended its deepest sympathy to Santokhi’s immediate family, the entire VHP political movement, and all Surinamese citizens who grieve the loss of the former president.