During the Caricom Inter-Sessional Meeting held on Thursday, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname emphasized the urgent need for regional unity in addressing climate change and restoring stability in Haiti. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva, President Simons represented Suriname at the virtual summit, where Caribbean leaders discussed pressing regional and global issues. The meeting, attended virtually from the Presidential Cabinet, served as a crucial platform for dialogue on climate change, security, the Haitian crisis, and Caribbean solidarity. Suriname highlighted its unique role as a carbon-negative nation, with vast forest areas contributing significantly to global climate health. Minister Bouva stressed that countries actively preserving the environment deserve fair compensation and sustainable climate financing. The leaders also addressed the ongoing crisis in Haiti, with Suriname expressing solidarity and support for international efforts to restore democracy, human rights, and security. Bouva affirmed Suriname’s commitment to contributing to stabilizing measures in alignment with UN resolutions. Additionally, the summit focused on regional security challenges, including maritime incidents and drug trafficking. President Simons underscored the importance of peace through dialogue and cooperation. Suriname is set to assume the chairmanship of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), positioning the country to play a pivotal role in shaping the regional foreign policy agenda. Bouva reiterated Suriname’s belief in collaboration, dialogue, and solidarity as essential for building a future of peace, sustainability, and mutual benefit.
标签： Suriname
苏里南
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Column: Ondoordacht gratieverzoek ontsteekt kruitvat in NDP-barak en bedreigt politieke stabiliteit
The recent call by Ramon Abrahams, Deputy Chairman of the National Democratic Party (NDP), for pardons for four individuals convicted in the December Murders has reignited old wounds and risks triggering an internal crisis within the party. Initially perceived as an act of loyalty to former leader Desi Bouterse, the move now threatens to weaken President Jennifer Simons politically and destabilize the fragile equilibrium of Suriname. During a commemoration event for Bouterse’s 80th birthday on October 13, Abrahams urged clemency for three imprisoned convicts and one fugitive, Iwan Dijksteel, who remains at large. Bouterse’s lawyer, Irvin Kanhai, added weight to the appeal by announcing he had submitted a pardon request to the President’s Cabinet on behalf of the convicts. President Simons, present at the event, appeared visibly surprised and stated she had not seen the request, leaving her unable to take a stance. The speech drew immediate backlash, both from society and within the NDP, as it reopened the unhealed trauma of the December Murders, a national tragedy. Critics labeled Abrahams’ remarks as ill-timed and politically tone-deaf, with some suggesting the move was poorly coordinated with Simons. The incident has exposed a growing rift within the NDP between a hardline faction loyal to Bouterse and a moderate group aligned with Simons, who seeks to restore the party’s image and maintain the ruling coalition. Simons now faces a delicate balancing act: as party leader, she cannot ignore the wishes of her colleagues, but as president, she must consider the sentiments of her coalition partners and the public. Coalition members like the NPS and A-20 are unlikely to support pardons for the December Murders convicts, given the symbolic weight of such a decision. While humanitarian arguments for clemency exist—three of the convicts are elderly and in poor health—the broader societal context, including the unresolved grief of victims’ families, complicates the matter. The situation is further muddied by conflicting reports about the legitimacy of the pardon request, with the convicts denying they authorized Kanhai to act on their behalf. This raises questions about internal power dynamics and whether the pardon issue is being weaponized in a factional struggle. Simons’ leadership is being openly tested, and some party members appear willing to undermine her if she does not align with their agenda. The irony is that Bouterse once warned that the NDP’s greatest threat would come from within—a statement that now rings prophetic. As Suriname grapples with significant economic challenges, including mounting debt and hopes for future oil revenues, the country’s political stability is once again jeopardized by internal strife and unresolved historical grievances. What Suriname needs is calm, clarity, and leaders who use the past as a lesson for the future, not as a weapon. Abrahams’ call, however, serves as a stark reminder of how thin the veneer of reconciliation remains.
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Wijnerman uit Washington DC: Donorcoördinatie cruciaal voor duurzame resultaten
During the annual World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) meetings in Washington D.C., Suriname’s Minister of Finance and Planning, Adelien Wijnerman, engaged in critical discussions aimed at bolstering the nation’s economic framework. The minister met with key international partners, including the IMF, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the World Bank Group, and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation, to address Suriname’s macroeconomic challenges.
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Minister Noersalim pleit voor gebruik van Surinaamse voeding
On World Food Day, Suriname’s Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, Mike Noersalim, urged consumers to prioritize locally produced Sranan food. Emphasizing the benefits of supporting local farmers, he highlighted the freshness, safety, and nutritional richness of Surinamese diets. “By choosing local, you not only bolster our farmers and economy but also embrace a healthier way of life,” he stated. Noersalim underscored agriculture as the backbone of food production, calling for collective efforts to ensure the nation’s agricultural abundance benefits future generations. He outlined initiatives to protect farmers, including investments in climate-smart techniques, improved irrigation, and robust quarantine measures to safeguard local crops and biodiversity from external pests. The livestock sector, he noted, plays a vital role in providing essential proteins, with a focus on quality and biosecurity. Investments in better breeds, modern slaughterhouses, and strict monitoring programs aim to prevent diseases and ensure safe, locally produced meat and dairy. Noersalim also described fisheries as Suriname’s “treasure from the water,” emphasizing sustainable practices to preserve marine resources for future generations. “Sustainable fishing is the only way forward to ensure our ‘blue economy’ remains productive and healthy,” he asserted. In alignment with this year’s World Food Day theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” the ministry, in collaboration with the FAO, donated agricultural tools and materials to educational institutions and the Stichting Ontspanningsoord voor Gehandicapte Kinderen (SOGK) to support their agricultural activities.
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Twee baby’s geboren in Marwina Ziekenhuis: activiteiten komen weer op gang
Marwina Hospital in Albina is on the brink of a significant transformation as it prepares to officially open its newly completed maternity ward. The hospital recently welcomed two newborns, marking a pivotal milestone in its journey toward full operational capacity. Director Henk Aviankoi shared with Starnieuws that the hospital is finalizing technical details to ensure the maternity ward is fully functional soon. “These births symbolize a major step forward for us,” Aviankoi remarked. In addition to the maternity ward, the hospital’s cafeteria is nearing completion, and essential services such as emergency care and ambulance operations have resumed regular operations. The hospital’s modernization efforts are part of a broader initiative funded by the French Development Bank (AFD), aimed at restructuring and upgrading its facilities. A newly appointed project manager, assigned by Health Minister André Misiekaba, is accelerating the implementation of the AFD project plan. Aviankoi highlighted that specialists, including a pediatrician and gynecologist, have committed to supporting the hospital, with discussions underway to bring in a cardiologist and youth dental care services. Another significant development is the resolution of long-standing salary issues, ensuring timely payments for staff. Aviankoi expressed optimism about the hospital’s progress, stating, “Step by step, Marwina Hospital is returning to full functionality, and the community will soon witness the positive changes.” Collaboration with French hospital partners in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni remains strong, with regular exchanges and technical missions furthering the hospital’s development.
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Staatsolie helpt Huize Prinses Margriet met renovatie lekkende daken
A generous donation of $80,000 from Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. has brought much-needed relief to the residents of Huize Prinses Margriet, a senior living facility in Suriname. The funds were used to completely renovate the leaking roofs of the high-rise flats, addressing a long-standing issue that had plagued the residents for years. The project, executed by TCF N.V. under the supervision of the facility’s management, has not only provided dry living spaces but also restored a sense of dignity and peace to the elderly residents. Marjon Ferrier-Dilweg, the chairperson of the board, emphasized that Staatsolie’s contribution went beyond mere repairs: “It has given our residents their peace of mind back.” The official opening ceremony was led by Staatsolie’s director, Annand Jagesar, alongside a resident and the facility’s management team. Jagesar highlighted that the initiative aligns with Staatsolie’s commitment to social responsibility, stating, “Our seniors have contributed to society throughout their lives. A safe living environment is not a privilege but something they deserve.” Established nearly 56 years ago by the Reformed Church of Suriname, Huize Prinses Margriet has long been a haven for elderly individuals, offering them a secure and welcoming home. With the roof renovation now complete, the board can focus on further developing the facility and enhancing care for its residents.
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Onderminister Jadnanansing bespreekt 12-urige werkweek met Rosebel
The Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VWA) in Suriname recently held discussions with Rosebel Gold Mines N.V., a subsidiary of China’s Zijin Mining, to address concerns over the implementation of 12-hour work shifts in mining operations. The talks focused on the potential impacts on workers’ health, safety, and rights. Deputy Minister Raj Jadnanansing, overseeing Welfare and Labor, emphasized that while the government supports efficiency and flexibility, all work schedules must comply with legal frameworks. ‘Rest and safety standards are enshrined in labor laws and must be strictly adhered to,’ Jadnanansing stated. The meeting follows earlier consultations with the Rosebel workers’ union, which raised concerns about extended work hours, safety risks, and communication gaps with management. Additional topics included the employment of foreign workers, safety standards, and the reactivation of the internal monitoring committee, which includes representatives from the employer, union, and ministry. The committee has been inactive for some time, and the ministry urged its prompt reinstatement to oversee compliance with labor agreements. The Directorate of Labor provided guidance on current labor laws, reminding the company that foreign workers must possess valid work permits issued by the ministry. Rosebel Gold Mines committed to addressing administrative shortcomings, and the Labor Inspectorate will conduct regular inspections to ensure legal compliance and support improvements in working conditions. Representing Rosebel Gold Mines were Daniel Wu (Human Resources Director), Jerry Zhu (Manager People and Culture), and Angela de Abreu (Deputy HR Manager).
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Kanhai: Ik trek gratieverzoek niet in
Attorney Irvin Kanhai remains steadfast in his decision to file a clemency request on behalf of the convicted individuals in the December 8 case. In a statement to Starnieuws, Kanhai confirmed that the request was delivered to the President’s Cabinet on September 17, 2025, and was officially acknowledged. “I have no intention of withdrawing the clemency request. This was submitted after consultation with the four convicts and leaders within the NDP,” Kanhai stated. He emphasized his 25-year involvement in the case, which he has handled pro bono, and his desire to avoid entanglement in internal NDP political disputes. Kanhai described the request as a “legal-scientific approach” rather than a political maneuver, aiming to conclude the case with dignity and legal integrity. The request, addressed to President Jennifer Simons, invokes Article 109 of the Constitution, seeking the remission of the remaining prison sentences for Iwan Dijksteel, Benny Brondenstein, Ernst Gefferie, and Stefanus Dendoe, all sentenced to 15 years. Dijksteel remains at large. Kanhai cited humanitarian and medical grounds for the plea, noting that the convicts, all over 75, suffer from severe health issues and inadequate medical care in Santo Boma prison. The request also highlights “exceptional circumstances” surrounding the trial, including public opinion influence, the role of victims’ families, and alleged judicial bias. Kanhai stressed that the request seeks humanitarian clemency, not a review of the verdict or an admission of guilt. The issue has sparked confusion and division, with President Simons initially claiming unawareness of the request, while Kanhai provided evidence of its receipt. Additionally, three convicts signed statements denying consent for the request, contradicting earlier agreements. The case has ignited intense political debate within the NDP and broader society, raising questions about the legitimacy of the request and the responsibilities of the involved parties.
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Olieprijzen dalen door vrees voor overaanbod
International oil prices experienced a significant decline on Wednesday, driven by mounting concerns over a global oversupply and weakening market sentiment due to escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. Brent crude dropped to around $78 per barrel in early trading, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) hovered near $74, marking the lowest levels in three months. Investors are reacting to indications that OPEC+ nations may be exceeding production targets and that global demand is growing more slowly than anticipated. The intensifying trade conflict between Washington and Beijing has further exacerbated market instability. China recently imposed new export controls on rare earth metals, prompting the US to warn of a potential ‘economic decoupling.’ Energy analysts predict that price pressures will persist as long as Asian demand remains sluggish and geopolitical uncertainties continue to loom. The situation underscores the fragile balance between supply, demand, and international trade dynamics in the global energy market.
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Column: Plaatsing nog mogelijk!
Suriname has emerged as a strong contender in the latest FIFA window, securing two draws and now sharing the top spot with Panama due to a superior goal difference. Despite Natio’s commendable performances, the team managed to secure only two points from these matches. While Suriname can take pride in these results, especially considering the numerous opportunities their opponents had in the away game, it is evident that the attack line requires reinforcement. Had Natio capitalized on their chances in the home game, they could have clinched a victory. The match against Panama was a different story, where Suriname could have easily faced defeat if their opponents had converted their opportunities. This underscores the urgent need for the management to recruit prolific strikers to ensure that created chances are effectively converted into goals. It is rare for teams to capitalize on every opportunity, but it is equally uncommon to squander as many chances as Suriname did. While preventing the opponent from scoring is not always possible, it is crucial to ensure that more goals are scored when opportunities arise. This is the key to securing three points, which is ultimately what matters. Unfortunately, goal-scoring remains a challenge even for professional teams. If Suriname aims to qualify for the World Cup, the attack line must perform better, as no matter how cohesive the teamwork is, without goals, victories cannot be achieved. With two matches remaining, Suriname still has a chance to qualify for the World Cup. However, converting these matches into wins and scoring more goals is crucial, especially since Panama has the same number of points, and goal difference could be decisive. In top-tier sports, there is no room for complacency or what is locally referred to as ‘tjepotie.’ Players are recruited to perform specific roles, and if they repeatedly fail to deliver, they must make way for others who are in better form. Natio is now stronger than ever, and opponents are aware of this, as evidenced by the tactics employed to negatively impact the team’s performance, such as loud music played near the hotel at night or discriminatory actions. It is high time that Natio’s growth is reflected in the final standings, as the points are essential for qualification. Lessons must be learned from the mistakes made in the last two matches without assigning blame. The limited points earned are a collective responsibility and must be addressed as such. Playing World Cup qualifiers is a new experience for all involved, and mistakes are inevitable. The key is to learn from these mistakes and find solutions collectively. In the final phase of the group matches, Natio can no longer afford any missteps. The focus must remain unwavering: World Cup participation. Qualification is still within reach!