AMSTERDAM – April 6 – The Diaspora Institute Netherlands (DIN) has released a statement mourning the passing of former Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, remembering his transformative vision for Suriname’s development through global collaboration with its diaspora community.
Drawing on an ancient Vedic teaching that frames human death as occurring in three stages — first when a person draws their final breath, second when their body is buried or cremated, and third when all memory of them fades — DIN emphasized that Santokhi will never experience this final passing. His ideas and vision remain embedded in the work of the institution he helped found, and will continue to shape Suriname’s future for generations to come.
The institute was formally established on September 11, 2021, during Santokhi’s first state visit to the Netherlands. Then-serving President Santokhi installed the organization at the Ons Suriname community center in Amsterdam, after recognizing the untapped potential of the global Surinamese diaspora to drive national growth. It was on this historic occasion that he shared his defining vision in one powerful, memorable statement: “We will build Suriname with 1 million Surinamese.”
Since that day, Santokhi’s words have formed the foundational inspiration for all of DIN’s work. The organization’s core mission is to connect Surinamese communities spread across the globe, and channel their resources, energy and expertise to accelerate inclusive development in Suriname — a mission that grew directly from Santokhi’s clear, unifying vision. Today, even after his passing, DIN confirms it will continue to advance that mission, with Santokhi’s goal of building a stronger Suriname in partnership with all Surinamese worldwide remaining its guiding north star.
Santokhi’s ideology lives on in the hearts and actions of everyone who continues to work toward his ideal. As long as his vision is upheld and put into practice, he will remain a lasting presence in Suriname’s future, the statement notes.
The institute extended its deepest condolences to all Surinamese people around the world who mourn this great loss, while reaffirming its unwavering commitment to carrying forward Santokhi’s work. “His body has left us, but his mission lives on. His voice has fallen silent, but his message echoes onward. Chan will never die. Jai Ho Chan! DIN connects.” the statement concluded.
The message was signed by the DIN Board: John Brewster, Uriel Sabajo, and Ranjan Akloe.