Irvin Kanhai, the prominent lawyer who has long represented Desi Bouterse in the December 8 trial, has confirmed that he submitted a pardon request for four individuals convicted in the case. However, he has yet to receive any response from the government. Kanhai asserts that the convictions were unjust. The individuals in question are Ernst Gefferie, Stephanus Dendoe, Benny Brondenstein—all currently serving their sentences in Santo Boma—and Iwan Dijksteel, who remains at large. Each was sentenced to 15 years in prison in December 2023.
Kanhai made these remarks during a National Democratic Party (NDP) commemoration event honoring what would have been Desi Bouterse’s 80th birthday. ‘Some time ago, I submitted a pardon request for these four individuals, whom I believe were wrongfully convicted and are our comrades,’ Kanhai stated. ‘We have heard nothing so far, but we remain determined.’
In his speech, Kanhai also addressed the strained relationship between Suriname and the Netherlands, advocating for transparency regarding historical events from the 1980s. ‘We also want a good relationship with the Netherlands. But when two friends have a dispute, and one cannot say, ‘Sorry, I hurt you,’ that friendship can never be restored. We hope the Netherlands will take that step.’
Ramon Abrahams, NDP’s deputy chairman and a former comrade of Bouterse, echoed Kanhai’s sentiments, reiterating that the party has always viewed the December 8 trial as politically motivated. He emphasized that the 2025 elections were intended to ‘free our comrades’ and reaffirmed the NDP’s unwavering stance on the matter.
Kanhai concluded his address with a personal message to Bouterse’s widow, Ingrid Bouterse-Waldring, and her family: ‘For me, I wish to close this chapter and, together with you, bring an end to the grieving process.’