Desi Bouterse, former dictator and president of Suriname, died at 79 after a brief illness. He rose to power in a 1980 coup and later became a fugitive due to his involvement in political violence. Despite his controversial past, he maintained support among the poor. His death has prompted expressions of grief and calls for calm from current leadership and party affiliates.
Desi Bouterse, Suriname’s former dictator and president, has passed away at the age of 79, as announced by the government. Initially rising to power following a coup in 1980, he later found himself a fugitive due to his involvement in the killings of political adversaries. Despite his controversial past, he retained popularity among the impoverished and working-class populations of Suriname.
After stepping down in 1987 amid international pressure due to violent political actions, Bouterse returned to power in 1990 following another coup, albeit without bloodshed. He was eventually elected president in 2010, leading the nation for a decade before his death. Current President Chan Santokhi extended condolences and encouraged citizens to maintain calm as they awaited official updates regarding Bouterse’s death, which occurred after a brief illness.
Following the announcement of his passing, Bouterse’s body was transferred discreetly to his residence in Paramaribo, where family and supporters gathered on Christmas Day. Doctor Rabindernath Khoenkhoen refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the cause of death.
The National Democratic Party (NDP), which Bouterse led, expressed profound sorrow at his unexpected demise. Party chairwoman Jennifer Simons acknowledged his vision and dedication to the country, remembering him as a “spiritual father” to supporters. In response to the situation, President Santokhi urged citizens to remain dignified and peaceful during this sensitive time.
Bouterse’s controversial history included the initial coup he led on February 25, 1980, which facilitated his rise as the military’s commander-in-chief. He faced legal troubles as Interpol pursued him for an 11-year prison sentence related to drug trafficking in the Netherlands. In 2019, he was convicted in absentia of orchestrating the 1982 executions of 15 individuals but consistently denied involvement, labeling the trial as politically motivated.
Throughout the lengthy judicial process, Bouterse was absent and claimed innocence regarding the killings. Although sentenced to 20 years, he did not surrender to authorities and instead lived in hiding, even hinting at potential political ambitions for future elections. Last year, he called upon his followers not to incite chaos, assuring them of his resilience until the upcoming 2025 elections.
Desi Bouterse’s death marks the end of a tumultuous chapter in Suriname’s history. His trajectory, from a military coup leader to an elected presidential figure, encapsulates the complexities surrounding his legacy. Despite his criminal convictions and controversies, Bouterse remained a figure of support for many within the country. As Suriname navigates the aftermath of his death, the calls for calm and dignity reflect the need for stability during this time of transition.
Original Source: www.france24.com
