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The Bureau of the Court of Justice (HvJ) at Grote Combéweg 7 was officially inaugurated on Friday, marking a significant step towards a modern, independent, and transparent judicial system. This fourth building expands the physical infrastructure of the Court of Justice, addressing the growing need for space due to an increase in judges, support staff, and courtroom demands. Court President Iwan Rasoelbaks emphasized the importance of timely, accessible, and well-communicated justice, stating that the new facility will contribute to these goals. The Bureau, responsible for the operational management of the judiciary, houses various support services, including Archives, Communications, Finance, ICT, and Legalization. The first floor features a spacious courtroom designed to handle cases of medium to high complexity, along with training facilities and a documentation center, positioning the building as a knowledge hub. Rasoelbaks dedicated the building to divine protection, recalling the 2017 consecration of the Wulfingstraat courthouse, which survived a 2023 attack. Jules de Rijp, Director of Operations, highlighted the Bureau’s role in supporting the judiciary’s primary function: administering justice. The Bureau’s establishment is seen as a cornerstone for a self-sufficient judiciary, with plans for a quality bureau to enhance operational efficiency. The building, once the Bureau for Family Legal Affairs (Bufaz), was restored under the leadership of Facility Manager Rishi Natha, with contributions from the Ministry of Public Works and architect Madelon Bab, who preserved its monumental character. The inauguration was described as a milestone by Justice Director Bieswadath Somai, who praised the project for its cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and cultural heritage preservation. Future plans include the completion of a new courthouse in Nickerie by late 2025 and the renovation of the former KvK building in 2026. The long-term vision of a unified Palace of Justice remains a priority, with full support from the Ministry of Justice and Police. The event concluded with Rasoelbaks presenting Somai with a book documenting the building’s history and restoration.

Thousands of participants gathered in Paramaribo on Saturday to take part in the Srefidensi Run and Walk, marking the commencement of Suriname’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. The event, which symbolizes the nation’s journey toward unity and progress, was officially inaugurated by Vice President Gregory Rusland. Accompanied by several ministers and members of the National Assembly, Rusland completed the entire route, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, trust, and solidarity in shaping Suriname’s future. ‘The next 50 years will require us to harness our collective strength to build a prosperous nation,’ Rusland stated. ‘We must demonstrate resilience and unity to ensure that every citizen, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or background, has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life.’ The run began at the Presidential Palace, winding through key landmarks such as the Waterkant, Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat, Johan Pengelstraat, and Henck Arronstraat, before concluding at Independence Square. Participants, including both children and adults, received certificates personally signed by President Jennifer Simons. In his address, Rusland highlighted the symbolic significance of the event, noting, ‘Fifty years ago, ethnicity dominated national discourse. While it still lingers today, perhaps it’s time to leave it behind and move forward as one. I am confident that together, we can create a brighter future for every Surinamese citizen.’

In a significant humanitarian effort, the Lions Club Paramaribo Central has donated 10 tons of rice to aid victims of Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica. The donation was handed over to the National Coordination Center for Disaster Management (NCCR), which will oversee the distribution of the relief supplies. The need is urgent, with critical shortages of drinking water, batteries, and construction materials reported in the affected areas. Hurricane Melissa has caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba over the past few days, with international news sources confirming 49 fatalities. Glen Tewari, the project committee chairman, emphasized the Lions Club’s mission, stating, ‘Our slogan is We Serve. As Lions, it is our duty to extend a helping hand to humanity.’ The donation, comprising 1,000 bags of 10-kilogram rice, was made possible with the support of NV Sunrise. The Lions Club has a history of mobilizing during disasters, both domestically and internationally. Colonel Jerry Slijngaard, NCCR coordinator, noted that the center is awaiting clearance to ship the rice, as ports in the affected regions remain closed. ‘Rice is at the top of the list of urgent needs,’ Slijngaard said. ‘Additionally, there is a high demand for construction materials, such as zinc sheets, batteries due to power outages, and drinking water. Suriname will contribute to the best of its ability—what we have, we will share.’

A significant fire erupted on Saturday evening in a warehouse owned by Haukes, located on Martin Luther Kingweg. Initial reports indicated that the facility stored various chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, a highly hazardous substance. The emergency alert was immediately relayed to the Onverdacht fire station, which responded swiftly with assistance from the Lelydorp station. Due to the potential presence of dangerous materials, the duty officer was promptly informed. Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed the presence of ammonium nitrate in the burning warehouse. Their rapid and effective response prevented the fire from spreading further. The blaze was brought under control by approximately 7:50 PM, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation by authorities.