Today marks a significant milestone in Suriname’s political landscape as the Reform and Renewal Movement (HVB) commemorates its eighth anniversary. Founded in 2015, the HVB emerged from a profound belief that the nation required a political shift—one centered on responsibility rather than power, and sustainable development over short-term gains. This anniversary is not a celebration but a moment of reflection, emphasizing the values, principles, and vision that define the movement. The HVB was born out of political disillusionment and growing distrust in traditional governance, choosing a path of renewal that prioritizes citizen voices and national interests. Over the past eight years, the movement has faced challenges but remained steadfast in its commitment to principled leadership. The HVB’s foundation rests on eight core pillars: principled politics over privileges, good governance and transparency, economic justice, social equality, national unity, responsible leadership, innovation, and unwavering loyalty to Suriname. These principles guide the movement through turbulent times, shaping its decisions and actions. The HVB aims to restore trust, inspire hope, and drive meaningful change, positioning itself not merely as a political party but as a movement for the nation’s future. As it enters a new phase, the HVB remains dedicated to collaboration, transparency, and courageous choices, working alongside citizens to build a Suriname defined by justice, stability, and prosperity. Raymond Sapoen, the movement’s political leader, expressed gratitude to supporters, critics, and partners who have contributed to its journey, reaffirming the HVB’s commitment to Suriname’s renewal and progress.
标签: Suriname
苏里南
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President Simons belooft snelle aanpak knelpunten Ewald P. Meyer Lyceum
President Jennifer Simons conducted an orientation visit to the Ewald P. Meyer Lyceum (Lyco 2) on Monday to gain firsthand insight into the school’s pressing issues. Acting Principal Letitia Philips-Denswil welcomed the president and guided her through the facility, highlighting critical concerns such as outdated infrastructure, a shortage of school furniture, and damage caused by woodlice in several classrooms. Philips-Denswil emphasized the importance of the president witnessing these challenges directly, stating that the school has long been taking independent initiatives to address these issues, as reported by the Suriname Communication Service.
President Simons immediately engaged Vice President Gregory Rusland, instructing him to prioritize the identification and resolution of Lyco 2’s challenges, as well as those of other schools facing similar conditions. The president assured that swift action would be taken to implement structural improvements in both infrastructure and educational resources.
Despite these limitations, Lyco 2 has been actively seeking solutions. For instance, the school utilizes sports facilities provided by the Venezuelan Embassy and Parima for physical education classes. Philips-Denswil expressed hope that the president’s visit would lead to sustainable support, emphasizing the school’s goal of creating a safe and inspiring environment for both students and teachers.
Through this visit, President Simons underscored that educational facilities are a top priority for her administration and that urgent situations demand immediate attention.
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Warme dag met ‘s middag enkele lokale buien
Suriname is set to experience another warm and predominantly dry day today, with localized cloud cover expected to increase in the afternoon. The early morning will remain calm and relatively clear, offering pleasant temperatures ranging between 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, particularly in Paramaribo and Wanica. By late morning, temperatures are forecasted to rise rapidly, reaching 32 to 35 degrees Celsius, with a muggy heat index exceeding 38 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels will remain high, especially in low-lying and densely built-up areas. Inland regions, particularly around the Upper Suriname area and Brokopondo, may experience even higher localized temperatures. During the afternoon, light cloud cover is anticipated in parts of the interior, with a possibility of brief local rain or thunderstorms, especially towards Sipaliwini and southern Brokopondo. Coastal districts are expected to stay largely dry, though a short-lived shower in the late afternoon cannot be ruled out. Winds will be easterly to northeasterly, generally weak to moderate, with occasional cooling breezes in the afternoon. By evening, skies will clear in most areas, and temperatures will gradually drop to a more comfortable 26 to 27 degrees Celsius.
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92-jarige Biya blijft aan de macht na verkiezingen in Kameroen
Paul Biya, the 92-year-old President of Cameroon, has been re-elected for an eighth term, extending his rule that began in 1982. The electoral commission announced that Biya secured a significant majority of votes in the preliminary results, solidifying his position as one of the world’s longest-serving leaders. While his supporters hailed the outcome as a testament to stability, the election has drawn international criticism. Opposition parties have alleged irregularities, voter intimidation, and restricted media and campaign freedoms. Observers also reported that the electoral process was disrupted in parts of the country due to security tensions, particularly in the English-speaking regions, which have been plagued by armed conflicts for years. In a brief statement, Biya pledged to continue his commitment to peace, national unity, and economic progress. However, opposition leaders have indicated they may pursue legal challenges. The final results are expected later this week, but political analysts suggest Biya’s grip on power remains unchallenged for now.
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Column: We kopen tijd – maar gebruiken we die ook verstandig?
Suriname is grappling with a severe financial crisis as it faces the daunting task of repaying over USD 400 million starting in 2026. With no immediate solutions in sight, the government has opted to restructure its debts, a move deemed necessary by experts like VES Chairman Steven Debipersad. The strategy aims to buy time until 2028, when oil revenues are expected to flow in. However, the pressing question remains: how will this time be utilized? While the Ministry of Finance & Planning is engaged in complex negotiations with the Bank of America, other government departments continue to operate as usual, indulging in lavish spending and ceremonial activities. This stark contrast has eroded public and international trust. The lack of clear communication has led to misconceptions, with many believing Suriname is ‘buying off’ its debts. In reality, the country is merely deferring payments, incurring higher interest rates (7.95%) and extending the repayment period to 2033. The real challenge lies in whether this borrowed time will be used wisely to implement rational investments and clear policies, or if it will be squandered on short-term measures and loss-making enterprises. The world is watching closely, as the potential oil revenues could either save or destroy Suriname, depending on how the funds are managed. Time is not a solution; it is an opportunity to finally get things right after 50 years of independence.
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VES-voorzitter Debipersad: Nieuwe schuldendeal biedt ademruimte; duidelijkheid nodig
Steven Debipersad, Chairman of the Association of Economists in Suriname (VES), has described the government’s attempt to restructure its foreign debt as ‘a timely and positive step.’ However, he cautioned that the government’s communication regarding this operation has been insufficient and confusing. ‘The idea is sound, but the government must clarify the specifics of the agreement, how it fits into the budget, and its long-term implications,’ Debipersad stated in an interview with Starnieuws.
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Nieuwe lichting groepscommandanten klaar voor inzet binnen Nationaal Leger
On Monday, twenty-one military personnel successfully completed the Group Commanders Course 2025-01 at the Institute for Defense Training (IDO). The graduates, representing various branches of the National Army, underwent an intensive four-month program that combined theoretical knowledge with practical training. This initiative was designed to address the shortage of group commanders within the military, focusing on leadership, discipline, and effective troop management. Most of the graduates hold the rank of first-class corporal and, with this certification, are now poised for further advancement in their military careers. One of the participants, Civillian Spier, highlighted the transformative impact of the course on his professional development. ‘This program has elevated my skills far beyond what I thought I was capable of as a corporal. It has inspired new ambitions for my growth within the army,’ he remarked. Colonel Justus Hew A Kee, the IDO commander, commended the participants for their dedication and perseverance, emphasizing the strategic importance of their roles. ‘Group commanders serve as the vital link between leadership and troops. This course fulfills a critical need, ensuring that missions are executed effectively,’ he stated.
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Suriname schittert tijdens North ISH Open 2025 IPSC Level 3
Suriname played host to the North ISH Open 2025, the year’s most prestigious shooting sports competition, held over three days. This IPSC Level 3 event attracted over fifty marksmen from both domestic and international arenas, showcasing exceptional precision, speed, and sportsmanship. While international participation fell slightly short of expectations, the foreign competitors compensated with their high-caliber performances. The Surinamese delegation stood out, securing podium finishes across nearly all categories. Ronald Brown (USA) claimed victory in the Standard Class, followed by France’s Régis Lemaitre and Suriname’s Andy Liu. Lemaitre also triumphed in the Standard Senior Class, with Liu and Bai Hongan in second and third places, respectively. Brown continued his dominance in the Standard Super Senior Class, ahead of Jean Condet and Marcel Tjon Kon Joen. In the Lady Class, Suriname achieved a clean sweep, with Tamani Stuger taking the top spot, flanked by Margery van Dijk-Amatdas and Angelique Tjon Kon Joen. Andrew Wilson emerged victorious in the Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) Class, trailed by Shaquille Liauw Kie Fa and Will Liu. Suriname’s Justin Heidanus, Alex Stuger, and Nicholson Zheng dominated the Production Optics Class. The Production Class saw Bruce Djosetiko claim the title with ease, followed by Nigel Sloot and Marc Loor, completing another all-Surinamese podium. Five prestigious IPSC President’s Medals were awarded to Ronald Brown (twice), Justin Heidanus, Tamani Stuger, and Régis Lemaitre. Suriname’s remarkable achievements at the event reaffirm its growing prominence in the international IPSC community, signaling a bright future for the sport.
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Jamaica in hoogste staat van paraatheid, doden al in Haïti
Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm, barreling toward Jamaica with sustained winds exceeding 260 km/h. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued dire warnings of life-threatening storm surges reaching up to 4 meters, torrential rainfall of up to 1 meter, and prolonged exposure to destructive winds and waves due to the storm’s slow trajectory. This unprecedented weather event is being described as one of the most severe to ever threaten the island. Evacuations have been ordered across Jamaica’s southern coast, particularly in low-lying areas such as Port Royal, Clarendon, and Saint Elizabeth. Over 800 emergency shelters have been activated to accommodate displaced residents. Authorities are urging the public to heed evacuation orders and remain in safe zones. The storm’s effects are already being felt in Jamaica, with powerful winds and surging floodwaters causing widespread disruption. Meanwhile, in neighboring Haiti, Hurricane Melissa has claimed at least three lives due to landslides, collapsing walls, and severe flooding exacerbated by heavy rainfall. The country’s already fragile infrastructure has worsened the crisis, leaving communities vulnerable to further devastation.
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Bouva: Staatsbezoek koning moet leiden tot tastbare economische resultaten
Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation, Melvin Bouva, has unveiled a comprehensive diplomatic agenda for the upcoming months, focusing on the 50th anniversary of Srefidensi (Independence) and the state visit of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. The visit, scheduled for December 1–3, aims to deepen bilateral relations and enhance economic diplomacy. Key events include high-level meetings with Suriname’s President, the National Assembly, and the Court of Justice, alongside a business program and discussions on the shared history of slavery and colonialism. Minister Bouva emphasized the importance of achieving concrete agreements, with details to be finalized in collaboration with Dutch counterparts.
In preparation for the 50th Srefidensi celebrations, Suriname has confirmed the attendance of eleven high-level delegations, including representatives from the Netherlands, Sint Maarten, Curaçao, Venezuela, Cuba, China, Ghana, the United Nations, the Organization of American States (OAS), and French Guiana. The country is also seeking broad participation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with Jamaica, the current chair, being approached. Suriname will cover accommodation, security, and transportation costs for the delegations, with a detailed budget expected in early November once the final number of attendees is confirmed.
Minister Bouva highlighted Suriname’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic presence globally, with 22 missions currently operational and a new generation of diplomats in training. The country continues to advocate for peace, human rights, and dialogue, adhering to the principle of being “friends with everyone, enemies of no one.” Bouva stressed that international visibility should translate into tangible trade and investment opportunities.
The minister also outlined a packed international schedule for November and December, including participation in the Brazil Climate Summit (November 5–8), COP-30, the CELAC-EU Summit (November 9–10 in Colombia), and the Summit of the Americas (December 3–5 in the Dominican Republic).
