PARAMARIBO, Suriname – July 31 – The women’s wing of the Progressive Communication Party (Partij van Communicatie, PVC) has issued a strong statement condemning recent controversial comments made by Cedric van Samson, a sitting member of the National Assembly from the ruling VHP party. Van Samson’s remarks, which implied that women are inherently less suited to hold Suriname’s highest political office, have triggered sharp pushback from gender equality advocates and political groups across the country.
As a political organization rooted in the core values of gender equity, mutual respect, and inclusive political representation, the PVC’s women’s caucus made clear that it rejects all forms of gender-based stereotyping and discrimination in unmistakeable terms. The group emphasized that political leadership should never be evaluated based on a candidate’s gender, but rather on their policy vision, personal integrity, professional expertise, and genuine commitment to serving the Surinamese public.
The statement highlighted that the PVC has long made a deliberate, principle-driven choice to reserve prominent positions for women on its electoral candidate lists. This decision, the group noted, stems from a deep-held conviction that women make an irreplaceable contribution to national development in Suriname. Their unique perspectives, expert knowledge, and leadership capabilities deserve full recognition, public trust, and widespread respect across all sectors of society.
Going further, the PVC’s women’s wing issued a call to action for all political parties, elected representatives, and public officials across Suriname to conduct national and local political and social debate with a greater sense of responsibility. Words carry tangible social weight, the group argued: comments from sitting political leaders play a major role in shaping societal norms, and they must never be used to discourage or exclude women who aspire to take on senior governing responsibilities.
Reaffirming their long-term commitment, the PVC women’s caucus pledged to continue working toward building a more inclusive Surinamese society where every woman has equal access to opportunities to develop her talents, hold leadership positions, and make a full, meaningful contribution to the country’s future. The statement closed with a clear core message: leadership has no gender. It is defined by character, competence, integrity, and dedication to serving the public good.