标签： Suriname

On October 10, 2025, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname paid tribute to the Indigenous and Maroon communities during the annual Day of the Maroons celebration. The ceremony, held at the Square of October 10, 1760, marked the 265th anniversary of the Maroons’ hard-fought struggle for freedom. President Simons emphasized that their resistance was a pivotal moment in Suriname’s history, ultimately leading to the abolition of slavery in 1863. She stated, ‘The Maroons did not receive freedom as a gift; they fought for it step by step. Their achievement should inspire us all to reflect on our shared history.’

Simons also highlighted the crucial role of Indigenous peoples in supporting escaped enslaved individuals during their flight to freedom. ‘The land we all inhabit originally belonged to the Indigenous peoples. They deserve our enduring recognition,’ she remarked. The President called for unity between Maroons and Indigenous communities, urging all Surinamese to work together for peace and progress under the theme ‘Ubuntu – I am because we are.’ She stressed, ‘No nation can thrive without unity. Even with wealth or resources, development is impossible if we do not hold onto each other. No group in this country should be left behind. We are each other’s guardians.’

In her speech, Simons reaffirmed her commitment to resolving land rights issues within three years, stating, ‘We do not need to wait for everything to be perfect. What can be addressed now must be tackled to ensure certainty for the people of the interior. I am committed to this.’ A special advisory group has been established at the Office of the President to address these matters, with consideration given to rulings by international bodies. ‘By recognizing land rights, we take steps toward a Suriname where everyone can envision their future. 2026 must be the year we take the first concrete steps,’ she declared.

The event concluded with the unveiling of the Day of the Maroons monument by President Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland, alongside traditional leaders. The ceremony was preceded by a ‘towe waata’ ritual and the laying of wreaths by government and National Assembly members.

Today, Suriname commemorates Marrondag, a day dedicated to honoring the courage, perseverance, and quest for freedom of the Maroon community. The Party for Rights and Development (PRO) extends its congratulations not only to the Maroon community but to the entire Surinamese population on this significant occasion. The PRO emphasized that the history of the Maroons is intertwined with that of all Surinamese, serving as a reminder that freedom and justice are the cornerstones of the nation. Over two and a half centuries ago, the Maroons chose freedom over subjugation, resisting colonial rule, waging a brave struggle, and establishing autonomous communities deep in the interior. Their resilience led to peace treaties with colonial powers in 1760 and the subsequent years, marking 265 years since these agreements. These treaties are among the earliest official recognitions of free Black communities in the Americas and represent a pivotal chapter in Suriname’s history of resistance—a source of national pride that continues to inspire. Marrondag underscores that freedom is not a given; it requires maintenance, much like justice and progress. The PRO sees this day as a call to reaffirm these values. While Maroons are now visible in governance and politics, many communities remain socially and economically vulnerable. Challenges in education, infrastructure, and economic development persist, limiting opportunities for youth in these regions. The PRO views it as its duty to safeguard equal rights and development opportunities for all Surinamese, emphasizing that investing in Maroon youth is investing in the nation’s future. Education is key: it opens perspectives, strengthens communities, and keeps the spirit of freedom alive. The PRO advocates for sustained focus on education in the interior, including well-equipped schools, skilled teachers, and access to digital resources. The history of the Maroons teaches that freedom was not granted but fought for, and this spirit of self-reliance and perseverance lives on in the new generation of Maroon youth striving for knowledge, independence, and progress. Marrondag is not only a day of remembrance but also of responsibility, reminding us that the work of our ancestors is incomplete until every child in Suriname, regardless of origin or residence, has equal opportunities to thrive. The PRO wishes all of Suriname, especially the Maroon community, a powerful and proud Marrondag, hoping that the spirit of freedom, justice, and development continues to guide the nation.

The National Democratic Party (NDP) has issued a heartfelt message of respect and solidarity on the occasion of the Day of the Maroons, celebrating the resilience, freedom, and pride of the Maroon community in Suriname’s interior, urban areas, and diaspora. In a statement, the NDP highlighted the historical significance of the Maroons, descendants of enslaved Africans who broke free from bondage and established independent communities in Suriname’s hinterlands, preserving their unique traditions, legal systems, and leadership. The party commemorated the signing of the 1760 peace treaty between the colonial government and the Ndyuka Maroons, a pivotal moment that laid the foundation for the recognition of Maroon peoples. However, the NDP emphasized that this recognition remained largely symbolic for decades, as Maroons continued to fight for equal access to education, healthcare, infrastructure, political representation, and respect. The statement acknowledged the Maroons’ contributions not only to Suriname’s history but also to its future. Despite their historical struggles, Maroons faced marginalization, with many villages lacking basic amenities and migration to urban areas presenting new challenges. The NDP noted significant progress in recent decades, with increasing numbers of Maroons holding leadership roles in government and parliament, pursuing higher education, and contributing to national development. Yet, challenges persist, particularly in infrastructure, internet access, education, and healthcare, exacerbated by the recent socio-economic crisis. The NDP outlined a vision for an inclusive future, prioritizing land rights recognition, sustainable infrastructure, education, public health, local economic development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The party concluded with a call for national unity, drawing inspiration from the Maroons’ spirit of resistance and resilience as a beacon of hope for all Surinamese in building a nation where every culture, people, and voice matters.

A heated argument between two brothers escalated into a violent confrontation last night, resulting in severe injuries for both individuals. The incident, which involved the use of a machete and scissors, occurred in the De Nieuwe Grond area. Police discovered brothers R. and A. with significant wounds at the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest that the altercation began as a physical fight, during which R. allegedly struck A. with a machete, causing injuries to the left side of his head and one of his fingers. In retaliation, A. stabbed R. in the chest with a pair of scissors. Both men were transported to the Emergency Department for urgent medical treatment. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances and motives behind the violent clash. The brothers are being treated as both victims and suspects in the case.

Suriname is gearing up to celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence, known as Srefidensi, with a series of events largely funded by the private sector and the public. The total cost of the celebrations is estimated at SRD 65 million, with approximately 70% already pledged by businesses. The remaining funds will be raised through a nationwide 50-hour telethon. The Presidential Committee for the 50th Anniversary of Srefidensi, led by Clebert Drenthe, provided details on the financing and program during a press conference on Thursday. The festivities include 36 planned activities, such as parades, cultural shows, boat parades, concerts, and fireworks displays, all centered around the theme ‘Srefidensi na Srefidenki.’ Drenthe emphasized that the government has not allocated a separate budget for the celebrations. Financial coordinator Henk Faerber explained that each working group submitted its own budget, which was then consolidated to arrive at the total cost. Efforts are being made to keep expenses as low as possible. Faerber noted that discussions with businesses are progressing well, with commitments covering 60-70% of the total budget. The committee aims to secure 80% sponsorship to minimize the financial burden on the government. Committee member Rachel Pinas announced that the public will be actively involved through a 50-hour telethon starting on October 25, exactly one month before the anniversary. The telethon will also include a caravan tour through various districts. Pinas highlighted that the fundraiser is not solely for the celebrations, as 60% of the proceeds will support the government’s ‘Every Child to School’ project. The goal is to raise SRD 25 million, a target that can be easily achieved if each person contributes at least SRD 50.

On the occasion of Maroon Day, the Progressive Reform Party (VHP) of Suriname has expressed its deep appreciation for the historical struggle and contributions of the Maroons to the nation’s freedom. The VHP emphasized that this day is not only a moment of remembrance but also a call to address persistent inequality and challenges in the country’s interior regions. Maroon Day, observed annually on October 10 since 1974, commemorates the 1760 peace treaty between the Okanisi tribe and colonial rulers in Paramaribo, marking the end of the brutal hunt for escaped slaves. This date, proposed by Maroon historian André Pakosie in consultation with tribal leaders, symbolizes both the peace achieved and the heroic resistance of Maroon ancestors against slavery and oppression. The VHP highlighted the Maroons’ enduring fight for justice and freedom, pledging continued efforts to resolve land rights issues critical to Maroon communities. The party acknowledged the difficult living conditions faced by many in the interior, where communities maintain rich traditions and cultural diversity. Progress under former President Chan Santokhi’s administration, including improvements in water, electricity, and education, was noted, with the VHP reaffirming its commitment to enhancing quality of life in these areas. Maroon Day remains a powerful symbol of freedom, resistance, and cultural richness, inspiring Surinamese society to this day. The VHP extended warm wishes to the entire Surinamese community, especially its Maroon brothers and sisters, for a meaningful and joyous celebration.