分类： politics

At the 151st General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Rabin Parmessar, an Assembly member and leader of the NDP faction, highlighted Suriname as a nation that not only advocates for humanitarian values but actively embodies them. Parmessar emphasized the unique social harmony in Suriname, where diverse religions and ethnic groups have coexisted peacefully for decades. He described the country as ‘a United Nations in miniature,’ underscoring its strength in diversity, inclusion, and human dignity.

Parmessar pointed to the coexistence of a mosque and synagogue in Paramaribo and the pivotal role of the Interreligious Council in maintaining societal stability as tangible examples of this harmony. He also marked two significant milestones: the 50th anniversary of Suriname’s independence on November 25, 2025, and the election of Jennifer Simons, the nation’s first female president, as a symbol of progress in equality and inclusive leadership.

Looking ahead, Parmessar outlined Suriname’s economic transformation, particularly its planned offshore oil production starting in 2028. He stressed the importance of transparency, local involvement, and maintaining the country’s carbon-negative status. Protecting the rainforest, he argued, is not an economic advantage but a global responsibility.

Parmessar called on parliaments worldwide to ensure humanitarian principles are reflected in governance, legislation, and crisis response. He urged lawmakers to uphold the rule of law, social protection, and impartial emergency aid, stating, ‘Parliamentarians are not just legislators but leaders with moral responsibility. No voice should go unheard, and no one should be left behind.’

On Monday, Suriname celebrated Diwali, a festival symbolizing light, harmony, and spiritual purity. The nation prides itself on being a “mini United Nations,” yet ethnic tensions persist, particularly in politics. Suriname’s strength lies in its diversity, where no single group dominates another. However, during a recent government press conference, President Jennifer Simons faced a contentious question: whether the removal of individuals from key positions appointed by the previous administration amounted to “ethnic cleansing.” The president responded sharply, emphasizing that such terminology is inappropriate in a democracy, especially in a nation nearing 50 years of independence and celebrated for its ethnic coexistence. She clarified that Suriname’s governance is built on reality, not ethnic chess games. Her pointed question to the journalist—”Did you understand my answer?”—highlighted the need for responsible language in public discourse. A free press is essential, but critical questions must not devolve into misleading narratives. No political party in Suriname represents a single ethnic group. The country is a mosaic of minorities, and suggesting otherwise undermines its foundation. The real issue is not “Whose people are these?” but “How do we design a system where state positions are not seen as personal property?” As Suriname approaches its 50th anniversary of independence, it must move beyond ethnic politics. Those who stoke ethnic tensions in a nation built on peace are playing with fire.

During the Divali celebration at the Kwatta Sports Complex, Minister Stephen Tsang of Public Works & Spatial Planning delivered a powerful message on behalf of President Jennifer Simons, emphasizing the government’s unwavering resolve to eradicate the ‘darkness of corruption and fraud.’ Drawing parallels between the festival’s symbolism of light overcoming darkness and the administration’s fight for justice and transparency, Tsang declared, ‘We will dispel this darkness with the bright light of accountability.’

The event, marked by vibrant festivities, included two Divali processions along the Kwattaweg, culminating at the sports complex. Attendees were treated to spectacular fireworks, live music, and a vegetarian feast, creating a festive atmosphere. Tsang underscored the broader significance of Divali, stating that its light could illuminate not only homes but also national governance, provided there is collective political and societal will.

Addressing the deep-rooted issue of corruption, Tsang acknowledged the government’s relentless efforts to revitalize the economy, public services, and state institutions. However, he stressed that success hinges on the active participation of every Surinamese citizen, calling for responsibility and love for the country. He also issued a cautionary note on the fragility of national unity, warning against the rising polarization in the multi-ethnic, multicultural, and multi-religious society.

Concluding his speech, Tsang invoked a quote from former minister Soewarto Moestadja: ‘It is time to move from unity in diversity to diversity in unity,’ urging a collective commitment to harmony and progress.