The Office of the Prime Minister of Grenada has issued an official statement of deep condolence to the government and people of the Republic of Suriname following the passing of former Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.
Widely remembered across the region as a committed public servant and a principled leader, Santokhi built his decades-long public career around a core belief in collaborative progress and collective action across the Caribbean. Throughout his tenure in public office, his work was defined by unwavering integrity, a dedication to public service, and a persistent commitment to strengthening democratic governance and expanding cross-regional partnerships.
Santokhi served as Chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) from July through December 2022, a period marked by widespread global volatility and uncertainty. During his time in this leadership role, he delivered steady, goal-oriented direction for the bloc, consistently advocating for Caribbean unity, prioritizing investments in regional resilience, and pushing for coordinated collective responses to shared transnational challenges. These challenges included the accelerating impacts of climate change, growing gaps in food and nutrition security, advancing sustainable development goals, and driving inclusive economic recovery in the wake of global shocks. His leadership centered on the enduring vision that the Caribbean region gains its greatest strength when all member states advance forward together.
A core tenet of Santokhi’s approach to regional governance was the repeated emphasis that progress cannot be achieved in isolation. Instead, he argued that lasting advancement grows from intentional cross-border partnership and shared responsibility. This collaborative approach deepened constructive dialogue between Caricom member states and strengthened the foundational frameworks that support ongoing regional integration efforts.
On behalf of the government and people of Grenada, the Prime Minister extended sincere sympathies to Santokhi’s immediate family, close friends, professional colleagues, and all communities in Suriname and across the broader Caribbean who are mourning his passing. The statement closed with a note of hope that Santokhi’s legacy of principled leadership, selfless public service, and unwavering commitment to Caribbean unity will continue to inspire current and future generations of regional leaders.
The statement ends with a prayer for the eternal rest of Santokhi’s soul.
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