Categorie archief: Divers

[5]

TEXT IN DUTCH, ENGLISH TRANSLATION BELOW

STARNIEUWS

1 MINUUT STILTE IN DNA BIJ DOOD BOUTERSE

29 DECEMBER 2024

https://www.starnieuws.com/index.php/welcome/index/nieuwsitem/84338

De Nationale Assemblee stond zaterdag tijdens de openbare vergadering stil bij het overlijden van Desi Bouterse die jarenlang lid is geweest van het college en fractieleider was van de NDP. Ook was hij twee termijnen president van Suriname. Er is geen onvertogen woord gevallen in De Nationale Assemblee, die ook 1 minuut stilte in acht heeft genomen. Alle fracties, de Assembleevoorzitter en de regering hebben hun medeleven betuigd met de familie en de NDP.

Assembleevoorzitter Marinus Bee opende de rij der sprekers en had het over een collectief verdriet, waarbij eenheid en respect van belang zijn. Hij riep op om vast te houden aan het positieve. Ronny Asabina, fractieleider van de BEP, zei dat een markante Surinamer is heengegaan. Hij was voor velen een bron van inspiratie. Hij heeft als een bijzondere Surinamer zijn stempel op vele terreinen gedrukt. Hij riep namens zijn partij op om de idealen van Bouterse te koesteren.

De fractieleider van Pertjajah Luhur, Evert Karto, toonde zijn respect voor de overledene. Een grote Surinamer is heengegaan. Hij was onlosmakelijk verbonden aan de geschiedenis van het land en heeft een diepe indruk achtergelaten. Hij was een vastberaden leider die grote uitdagingen is aangegaan. Zijn leiderschap ging gepaard met zware verantwoordelijkheid, waarbij keuzen moesten worden gemaakt. Er moeten lessen geleerd worden uit het verleden en gebouwd worden aan een rechtvaardige toekomst.

Edgar Sampie zei namens ABOP dat Bouterse een grote zoon was van het land. In en buiten Suriname is zijn heengaan een groot verlies. Hij prees zijn moed en durf in goede en slechte tijden. Sampie bracht in herinnering dat zijn voorzitter, vicepresident Ronnie Brunswijk, en Bouterse een lange geschiedenis hebben gedeeld. Zijn inspiratie moet gebruikt worden om het land op te bouwen. Ivanildo Plein van de NPS bracht zijn condoleances over aan de familie, vrienden en de dierbaren van de overledene en wenste hen sterkte toe met het verlies. 

Asis Gajadien, fractieleider van de VHP, zei dat het land geconfronteerd is geworden met het plotselinge heengaan. Er is veel discussie geweest en er spelen veel emoties. Het is niet aan hem of de VHP om te oordelen. Dat ligt aan hogere machten. Hier op aarde is het de taak om in alle rust en alle eerbied zaken af te handelen. Hij condoleerde de weduwe Ingrid Bouterse-Waldring, zijn kinderen, andere familieleden en de NDP en wenste hen veel sterkte toe. Namens de regering betuigde minister Krishna Mathoera haar sympathie met De Nationale Assemblee en de NDP-fractie.

“De leider van de Revolutie, gewezen voorzitter, erevoorzitter van de NDP,  lid van De Nationale Assemblee, tevens president van de Republiek Suriname, onze geestesvader en nestor, de heer Desiré Delano Bouterse is ons plotseling komen te ontvallen. Nationaal en internationaal erkend als een groot en inspirerende progressieve leider voor jonge natiestaten”, zei Rabin Parmessar, fractieleider van de NDP.

“Zijn nalatenschap blijft een baken voor ons werken, bewustwording en dekolonisatie van onze samenleving.
Wij zullen zijn visie en idealen met vastberadenheid voortzetten en zijn droom van een sterker en verenigd Suriname levend houden. Zijn visie was groot, zijn droom voor ons land puur, waarbij hij tevens zocht naar een vreedzame wereld gebaseerd op duurzame internationale principes en internationaal recht.

Desiré Delano Bouterse is op weg naar het Grote Licht, moge zijn ziel in vrede rusten; zijn werk hier is voldaan, maar hij blijft voortleven in onze idealen en in elke positieve daad voor duurzame ontwikkeling, daar zijn nalatenschap zal blijven als een eeuwige belofte aan ons aller geliefd land en volk.

Wij wensen zijn echtgenote, familie, partij leden, sympathisanten van de NDP en allen die geraakt zijn door dit groot verlies veel sterkte. Wij bedanken de familie in het bijzonder zijn echtgenote en kinderen, dat zij hem met ons hebben gedeeld. Een grote zoon en groot nationalist met zijn hart op de juiste plaats voor Suriname is ons voorgegaan! Hij zal altijd bij ons zijn; zijn legacy is nu deel van ons!”

EINDE

ENGLISH TRANSLATION

STARNIEUWS

1 MINUTE SILENCE IN DNA [DE NATIONALE ASSEMBLEE, THE SURINAMESE

PARLIAMENT] AT THE DEATH OF BOUTERSE

LINK IN DUTCH

https://www.starnieuws.com/index.php/welcome/index/nieuwsitem/84338

During the public parliamentary meeting the Nationale Assemblee 

reflected for a while on the death of Desi Bouterse, a yearlong member

of the parliament and faction leader of his political party, the NDP.

He was also for two terms president of Suriname.

Not a word of disapproval was uttered in the Nationale Assemblee, that

also took one minute of silence, out of respect.

All factions of the political parties, the Chairman of the Nationale Assemblee included as the government, have given condolences to his family and the NDP.

Assemblee Charman Marinus Bee was the first speaker and referred to a

collective grief and the importance of unity and respect.

He called for holding on positivity.

Ronny Asabina, faction leader of the political party BEP said, that a person

of significance had passed away.

For many he was a source of inspiration.

As a remarkable Surinamese leader he made his mark on many segments

of society.

On behalf of his party he called on to cherish the ideals of Bouterse.

Evert Karto, factionleader of the political party Pertjajah Luhur,

showed his respect for the deceased.

A great Surinamese leader has passed away.

He was inseparably connected with the history of the country and has

left behind a deep impression.

He was a determined leader, who has taken on major challenges.

His leadership was accompanied by great responsibility in which choices

had to be made.

Lessons must be learned from the past to build a just future.

On behalf of the political party ABOP Edgar Sampie said, that Bouterse was

a great son of the country.

He praised his courage and guts in good and bad times.

Sampie reminded that his Chairman, vice president Ronnie Brunswijk and

Bouterse shared a long history.

His inspiration must be used to build the country.

Ivanildo Plein of the political party NPS gave.his condolences to the family,

friends and loved ones and wished them strength.

On behalf of the government minister Krishna Mathoera expressed her

sympathy with the Nationale Assemblee and the NDP faction.

Asis Gajadien, faction leader of the political party NDP said, that the country was confronted by the sudden decease.

There has been much discussion and many emotions play a part.

It is not for him or the VHP to judge.

That depends on Higher Powers.

Here on this Earth it is the task to handle matters in all quietness and respect.

He gave his condolences to the widow Ingrid Bouterse-Waldring, his

children and other family members and the NDP and wished them much strength with their loss.

”The Leader of the Revolution, former chairman honorary chaorman, member

of the Nationale Assemblee, also president of the Republic Suriname, our spiritual father and nestor, mr Desire Delano Bouterse, is taken away from us.

Nationally and internationally recognized as a great and inspiring progressive 

leader for young nation States” said Rabin Parmessar, faction leader of the

NDP, the party of Bouterse.

”His legacy remains a Beacon for our Labiour, political awareness and

decolonization of our society.

We shall continue his vision and ideals with determination and shall hold vivid his dream of a stronger and united Suriname.

His vision was great, his dream for our country pure, where he also searched for

a peaceful world, based on lasting international principles and International Law.

Desi Delano Bouterse is on his way to the Great Light, may his soul rest in Peace.

His work here is done, but he continues to live on in our ideals and every

positive deed for sustainable development, since his legacy will

remain an eternal promise to our beloved country and people.

We wish his wife, family, party members, sympathizers of the NDP and all

who are touched by this great loss, much strength.

We thank the family, in particular his wife and children, that they shared him

with us.

A great son and great nationalist with his heart in the right place for Suriname has gone before us!

He will always be with us: his legacy is now part of us!”

END

[4]

”Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his condolences to the people of Suriname following the death of Desi Bouterse, the controversial former president and military leader of the South American nation.”

NL TIMES

DUTCH AND SURINAMESE LEADERS REACT TO DEATH OF DESI 

BOUTERSE

26 DECEMBER 2024

https://nltimes.nl/2024/12/26/dutch-surinamese-leaders-react-death-desi-bouterse

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his condolences to the people of Suriname following the death of Desi Bouterse, the controversial former president and military leader of the South American nation. However, Schoof withheld any direct message of sympathy for Bouterse himself, citing the former leader’s responsibility for atrocities during his time in power, including the December Murders of 1982.

“My thoughts are with all Surinamers, particularly the relatives of the victims of the December Murders,” Schoof said. “Bouterse’s memory will always be shaped by his role in those horrific events.” Schoof also supported Surinamese President Chan Santokhi’s call for calm, urging “rest and dignity” in the aftermath of Bouterse’s death.

The circumstances surrounding Bouterse’s death remain under investigation in Suriname. According to the Surinamese police, unknown individuals transported his body to his home in Leonsberg from an undisclosed location. A resident of the house informed police of the body’s arrival during an early-morning visit.

Authorities were first alerted to Bouterse’s death shortly after 5 a.m. local time on Wednesday. A doctor summoned by the police found no signs of foul play during an initial examination. However, the body was seized following consultation with the Public Prosecutor’s Office to determine the exact cause of death.

Bouterse, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison last year for orchestrating the December Murders, never served his sentence, having evaded justice by fleeing. The killings, which took place at Fort Zeelandia, resulted in the deaths of 15 political opponents of Bouterse’s military regime. “His death has left many emotions in Suriname and here in the Netherlands, especially among the victims’ families,” Schoof said on social media.

Reactions to Bouterse’s death highlight the deep divisions in how he is remembered. VHP Nederland, the Dutch branch of the Surinamese governing party, issued a statement acknowledging the polarizing nature of Bouterse’s legacy.

“Desi Bouterse is remembered by many as a controversial figure due to his role in historical events that left deep scars,” the organization stated. “For some, his leadership is associated with injustice and pain, particularly related to the December Murders and the military dictatorship.”

The group called for “respect and dignity” during this period of mourning and urged Surinamese society to reflect on the country’s tumultuous past. “Only through openness and understanding can Suriname turn the pain of the past into a united and sustainable future,” the statement added.

Bouterse, who also faced drug trafficking charges, was convicted in absentia by a Dutch court in 1999 for involvement in a cocaine smuggling operation. The strained relations between the Netherlands and Bouterse’s administration persisted for decades, with the former leader frequently criticizing the Netherlands as Suriname’s former colonizer.

Prominent figures in the Netherlands with ties to Suriname expressed mixed feelings about Bouterse’s death. Attorney Gerard Spong, who was involved in investigations into the December Murders, described the news as “ambivalent.”

“Bouterse was a man with a lot of blood on his hands,” Spong told ANP. “It’s deeply frustrating that he avoided earthly justice by remaining a fugitive. He held Suriname hostage for 40 years and caused enormous suffering. I do not mourn his death.”

Spong, who lost friends and colleagues in the 1982 killings, called Bouterse’s death “a bitter end to a painful chapter.”

Journalist Noraly Beyer, who produced a documentary on the December Murders two years ago, also shared her conflicted emotions. “There was justice from the courts, and now there is justice from a higher power,” she said. “It’s a relief that the man who caused so much harm is gone. But it’s also unsatisfying because he never served his sentence.”

Beyer noted the importance of answering lingering questions about Bouterse’s final days. “Where was he hiding? How did he die? These answers are important for the victims and their families,” she said.

Bouterse’s death also prompted calls for societal healing. VHP Nederland emphasized the need for Suriname to focus on reconciliation and justice. “We must continue advocating for democracy, transparency, and human rights in Suriname,” the group said.

The Surinamese police have urged the public to refrain from speculation and to await the results of the ongoing investigation. “We ask for patience and calm as we work to clarify the circumstances surrounding Mr. Bouterse’s passing,” the statement read.

END

”Desi Bouterse, the former president of Suriname who fled authorities to avoid jail after his conviction over the murder of activists in the 1980s, has died at age 79, the government says.”

…..

…..

”In December last year, Bouterse was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murders, ending a historic 16-year legal process.

He then vanished and never served time in jail.”

ALJAZEERA

DESI BOUTERSE, SURINAME’S FUGITIVE FORMER PRESIDENT,

DIES AT 79

25 DECEMBER 2024

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/25/desi-bouterse-surinames-fugitive-former-president-dies-at-79

SEE FOR THE WHOLE ARTICLE, NOTE 1

[2]

WIKIPEDIA

DECEMBERMURDERS

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/December_murders

NL TIMES

HIGH COURT SENTENCES FORMER SURINAME LEADER

BOUTERSE TO 20 YEARS FOR DECEMBER MURDERS

20 DECEMBER 2023

https://nltimes.nl/2023/12/20/high-court-sentences-former-suriname-leader-bouterse-20-years-december-murders

The top court in Suriname affirmed the conviction and 20-year prison sentence against Desi Bouterse, the former president of Suriname, for his role in the December Murders. The High Court of Justice issued the final verdict in the case on Wednesday. However, the High Court did not call for Bouterse’s immediate request.

Bouterse, now 78 years of age, was not present when the verdict was read. He has always maintained his innocence. In its decision, the High Court affirmed two lower court rulings.

Bouterse, who formerly lead the military, staged a coup in February 1980 in which he deposed the Surinamese government. Nearly three years later, Bouterse’s regime rousted 15 prominent Surinamese people from their homes in the middle of the night in an operation that began on December 7, 1982.

Seen as political opponents, the 15 people were taken to Fort Zeelandia, which Bouterse used as his headquarters at the time. The victims were first tortured before being killed by soldiers. The group of victims includes union leaders, journalists, university lecturers, soldiers, attorneys, and businessmen.

Bouterse was convicted in absentia and sentenced to 20 years in prison during a court-martial procedure in 2019. The Court of Appeal affirmed the conviction and sentence in 2021.

This week, the Dutch Embassy in Suriname issued a warning to Dutch people in the country regarding the outcome of the trial. A threat analysis by Suriname’s police and intelligence offices cautioned that Bouterse’s supporters, of which there are many, could intend to endanger public safety if the former president was convicted.

The threat analysis leaked out in December, stating there were “real and very serious threats.”

END

APNEWS.COM

SURINAME’S EX-DICTATOR SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON 

FOR THE 1982 KILLINGS OF POLITICAL OPPONENTS

20 DECEMBER 2023

https://apnews.com/article/bouterse-sentence-suriname-killings-1982-06f6ec073ca947fc862af1beb35993e4

PARAMARIBO, Suriname (AP) — Suriname’s former dictator Desi Bouterse was sentenced on Wednesday to 20 years in prison for the murders of 15 opponents of the then-military regime in December 1982, ending a historic 16-year legal process.

Bouterse, 78, was previously sentenced in the case in 2019 and in 2021 but had appealed both decisions. The court on Wednesday upheld his conviction and the latest sentencing was seen as final with no more appeals allowed. The judge handed down 20 years given the ex-president’s age and that it was the highest sentence allowed at the time of the killings.

“We have received a gem of a verdict,” said Hugo Essed, lawyer for the victims’ relatives, adding that he can now “proudly” say there is an independent constitutional state in Suriname.

Neither Bouterse, nor his four co-suspects, who were sentenced to 15 years in prison, were present in the courtroom for the sentencing.

Bouterse’s lawyer, Irvin Kanhai, said he disagreed with the verdict and had expected an acquittal, but would go into detail at a later date. “I am going to my client now,” he told journalists.

The former president remains chair of the National Democratic Party and some fear unrest in parts of Suriname. Die-hard supporters call him “boss” and have maintained they will not accept a conviction. Bouterse has urged calm several times. Tight security measures were in place in part of the capital of Paramaribo.

Bouterse still has the option of requesting a presidential pardon, but according to Essed, the legislation in Suriname is unclear on the issue. “If a request for clemency is made, it is not expected that the Court will advise on granting it.”

Henk Kamperveen, the son of Andre Kamperveen, one of the 15 people killed, said it took a long time, but the legal process against Bouterse has finally come to an end.

“We’re not going to celebrate,” he added, saying it is not a victory for the relatives, but for the rule of law in Suriname.

Prosecutors had demanded the immediate imprisonment of Bouterse, but the judge did not back the request. “How and when (Bouterse’s imprisonment) will happen is up to the prosecution,” said Essed.

Bouterse led a bloodless coup to become dictator from 1980 to 1987 and was democratically elected president from 2010 to 2020.

He and two dozen others were accused of rounding up well-known people including lawyers, journalists and a university professor and executing them in 1982 in a colonial fortress in Paramaribo.

The former dictator has accepted “political responsibility” but insists he was not present for the killings known as the “December murders.”

The criminal trial began in 2007, a quarter-century after the events it relates to. A total of 25 suspects were initially accused in the killings. A dozen have been acquitted, six have died and five have been sentenced. Two have been convicted but are believed to have fled Suriname.

Bouterse unsuccessfully tried to push through an amnesty law after being elected in 2010. Then in 2016, he ordered Suriname’s attorney general to halt legal proceedings for alleged national security reasons. A court rejected that.

END

[1]

ALJAZEERA

DESI BOUTERSE, SURINAME’S FUGITIVE FORMER PRESIDENT,

DIES AT 79

25 DECEMBER 2024

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/25/desi-bouterse-surinames-fugitive-former-president-dies-at-79

Government extends condolences for death of Bouterse, ex-leader convicted for role in 1982 killing of activists.

Desi Bouterse, the former president of Suriname who fled authorities to avoid jail after his conviction over the murder of activists in the 1980s, has died at age 79, the government says.

“In anticipation of more detailed and definitive information from official channels, we would like to offer our condolences to the wife, children and other surviving relatives for this loss,” President Chan Santokhi said in a statement on Wednesday, referring to Bouterse.

Vice President Ronnie Brunswijk wrote on Facebook that Bouterse’s “life had a lasting impact on our country and his efforts will not be forgotten”.

His cause of death was not immediately clear, and the government did not provide details on where Bouterse died on Tuesday.

A divisive figure, Bouterse was applauded by supporters for his charisma and populist social programmes but viewed by his opponents as a ruthless dictator who was convicted of drug trafficking and extrajudicial killings.

He dominated politics in the small country on the northeastern coast of South America for decades, leading a coup in 1980 and finally leaving office in 2020.

In 2019, he and six other people were convicted for their roles in the 1982 murders of 15 leading government critics, including lawyers, journalists, union leaders, soldiers and university professors.

Bouterse had claimed the murdered men were connected to a planned invasion of the former Dutch colony.

In December last year, Bouterse was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murders, ending a historic 16-year legal process.

He then vanished and never served time in jail.

“There is nobody who has shaped the history of Suriname since its independence like Desi Bouterse,” said Dutch historian Pepijn Reeser, who wrote a biography of Bouterse in 2015.

He said Bouterse was the first to overcome the stark social class divide that once defined Suriname.

“Before the coup, it was unthinkable somebody from the lower class could become the most powerful man of the country. But he was also the first postcolonial leader to resort to political violence and the first to use Suriname as a transshipment point for illegal narcotics,” Reeser said.

In 1999, a Dutch court sentenced Bouterse in absentia to 11 years in prison for smuggling more than 453kg (1,000lb) of cocaine to the Netherlands. The absence of an extradition treaty between the nations meant he never served his time in prison.

Early on Wednesday, dozens of supporters gathered outside Bouterse’s home, where his wife lived, tears streaming down their faces.

Many were dressed in purple, the colour of his political party.

END

ANP

https://nos.nl/artikel/2549595-surinaamse-oud-president-desi-bouterse-79-overleden

EX-PRESIDENT DESI BOUTERSE

MAIL TO THE GHANA REPORT/’DESI BOUTERSE IS NO ”PEOPLE’S HERO”/THIEF/DICTATOR/CRIMINAL AGAINST HUMANITY/[LETTER TO THE EDITOR]

Desi Bouterse is no ”People’s hero”/Thief/Dictator/Criminal against humanity

Astrid Essed

From:astridessed@yahoo.com

To:info@theghanareport.com

Tue, Jan 14 at 11:56 AM

Letter to the Editor,

Dear Editor,

Shortly before Christmas former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse died

at the age of 79.

And almost immediately he was depicted as a sort of Saint by ”

birds of various feathers”

So in the Surinamese parliament, the ”Nationale Assemblee”,

Bouterse was called ”a courageous leader”, a ”great son” and ”inspiring”

Others called him a ”People’s hero’, the man, who pursued social reforms,

a man, ”who fought for the poor”.

Many people, including the prime minister of Barbados, mrs Mottley [who

gave a statement at the death of ex president Bouterse], called Desi Bouterse

”charismatic”

Memorial services were being held, as in Suriname as in the Netherlands

[Suriname’s former colonizer, where many Surinamese live nowadays]

and not a few numer of people let their tears flow freely and recalled Bouterse’s 

”social engagement”

Now it is true, that in his time as president, Bouterse pursued a number of

social reforms, which meant a lot for many people in a poor country 

like Suriname, but there was handled irresponsibly with the financial

resources of the country with as a consequence, that after two periods of

presidency, Bouterse plunged Suriname into near-bankruptcy.

And not to forget:

Bouterse greatly enriched himself and his political friends at the cost

of the Surinamese people.

We call that theft and corruption!

People should realize that yet apart from the misery he brought to

thousands and thousands of young peole with the opening of

the country to the drug trade.

But there is more….

Bouterse appeared on the Surinamese political scene as the leader

of the 25 february 1980 military coup, with which he overthrew the

democratic system.

After an initial false-friendly Period, soon sordid human rights violations

made their appearance:

The death, after a suspicious police intrrogation, of alleged contra coup plotter,

the Surinamese ex KNIL [former Dutch colonial Army in then Dutch East Indies,

since 1948 Indonesia] military Fred Ormskerk [1980], the arrest and detention without trial of former politicians, the execution of contra coup plotter major Hawker, lying wounded on a brancard, [march 1982], with as one of the darkest events, the arrest and extrajudicial execution [after torture] of fifteen political opponents of

the Bouterse military regime, theDecembermurders [december 1982]!

The two courageous women’s marches as a protest against the Decembermurders must be mentioned here and deserve an honourable

page in Surinamese history!

Then major Horb, former right hand man of Bouterse, died under suspicious

circumstances in a police cell, after his arrest. [ February 1983]

After the Decembermurders, Bouterse c.s. established a dictatorship,

that would last until 1987, when the first free elections took place.

During the civil war with former bodyguard Brunswijk [leader of

the Jungle Commando], one of the worst human rights violations

under Bouterse took place:

In the maroon village Moiwana, more then 39 civilians were

killed by the National Army under responsibility of commander in Chief, Desi

Bouterse/A mass slaughter and crime against humanity!

In 1987 Bouterse established his political party NDP [that led a big defeat

at the 1987 elections!] and during the years Bouterse made himself popular

with populist and nice sounding speeches, presents to his political fans and

some social reforms.

That may be so, but fact remains, that Bouterse and co are guilty of

theft, torture, executions and mass slaughter: Crimes against humanity.

Because of the ”Saint Declaration” of Bouterse, this Letter is written.

So that his crimes will not be forgotten.

Astrid Essed

Amsterdam

The Netherlands

ANP

https://nos.nl/artikel/2549595-surinaamse-oud-president-desi-bouterse-79-overleden

EX-PRESIDENT DESI BOUTERSE

MAIL ASTRID ESSED TO THE GRENADIAN VOICE/DESI BOUTERSE  NO

”PEOPLE’S HERO”/THIEF/DICTATOR/CRIMINAL AGAINST HUMANITY/[LETTER TO THE EDITOR]

Desi Bouterse is no ”People’s hero/Thief/Dictator/Criminal against humanity

Astrid Essed

From:astridessed@yahoo.com

To:grenadianvoice@gmail.com

Sat, Jan 11 at 4:11 AM

Letter to the Editor,

Dear Editor,

Shortly before Christmas former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse died

at the age of 79.

And almost immediately he was depicted as a sort of Saint by ”

birds of various feathers”

So in the Surinamese parliament, the ”Nationale Assemblee”,

Bouterse was called ”a courageous leader”, a ”great son” and ”inspiring”

Others called him a ”People’s hero’, the man, who pursued social reforms,

a man, ”who fought for the poor”.

Many people, including the prime minister of Barbados, mrs Mottley [who

gave a statement at the death of ex president Bouterse], called Desi Bouterse

”charismatic”

Memorial services were being held, as in Suriname as in the Netherlands

[Suriname’s former colonizer, where many Surinamese live nowadays]

and not a few numer of people let their tears flow freely and recalled Bouterse’s 

”social engagement”

Now it is true, that in his time as president, Bouterse pursued a number of

social reforms, which meant a lot for many people in a poor country 

like Suriname, but there was handled irresponsibly with the financial

resources of the country with as a consequence, that after two periods of

presidency, Bouterse plunged Suriname into near-bankruptcy.

And not to forget:

Bouterse greatly enriched himself and his political friends at the cost

of the Surinamese people.

We call that theft and corruption!

People should realize that yet apart from the misery he brought to

thousands and thousands of young peole with the opening of

the country to the drug trade.

But there is more….

Bouterse appeared on the Surinamese political scene as the leader

of the 25 february 1980 military coup, with which he overthrew the

democratic system.

After an initial false-friendly Period, soon sordid human rights violations

made their appearance:

The death, after a suspicious police intrrogation, of alleged contra coup plotter,

the Surinamese ex KNIL [former Dutch colonial Army in then Dutch East Indies,

since 1948 Indonesia] military Fred Ormskerk [1980], the arrest and detention without trial of former politicians, the execution of contra coup plotter major Hawker, lying wounded on a brancard, [march 1982], with as one of the darkest events, the arrest and extrajudicial execution [after torture] of fifteen political opponents of

the Bouterse military regime, theDecembermurders [december 1982]!

The two courageous women’s marches as a protest against the Decembermurders must be mentioned here and deserve an honourable

page in Surinamese history!

Then major Horb, former right hand man of Bouterse, died under suspicious

circumstances in a police cell, after his arrest. [ February 1983]

After the Decembermurders, Bouterse c.s. established a dictatorship,

that would last until 1987, when the first free elections took place.

During the civil war with former bodyguard Brunswijk [leader of

the Jungle Commando], one of the worst human rights violations

under Bouterse took place:

In the maroon village Moiwana, more then 39 civilians were

killed by the National Army under responsibility of commander in Chief, Desi

Bouterse/A mass slaughter and crime against humanity!

In 1987 Bouterse established his political party NDP [that led a big defeat

at the 1987 elections!] and during the years Bouterse made himself popular

with populist and nice sounding speeches, presents to his political fans and

some social reforms.

That may be so, but fact remains, that Bouterse and co are guilty of

theft, torture, executions and mass slaughter: Crimes against humanity.

Because of the ”Saint Declaration” of Bouterse, this Letter is written.

So that his crimes will not be forgotten.

Astrid Essed

Amsterdam

The Netherlands

ANP

https://nos.nl/artikel/2549595-surinaamse-oud-president-desi-bouterse-79-overleden

EX-PRESIDENT DESI BOUTERSE

DESI BOUTERSE IS NO ”PEOPLE’S HERO”/THIEF/DICTATOR/CRIMINAL AGAINST HUMANITY

Desi Bouterse is no ”People’s hero”/Thief/Dictator/Criminal against humanity

Astrid Essed

From:astridessed@yahoo.com

To:news@guyanatimesgy.com

Sat, Jan 11 at 4:15 AM

Letter to the Editor,

Dear Editor,

Shortly before Christmas former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse died

at the age of 79.

And almost immediately he was depicted as a sort of Saint by ”

birds of various feathers”

So in the Surinamese parliament, the ”Nationale Assemblee”,

Bouterse was called ”a courageous leader”, a ”great son” and ”inspiring”

Others called him a ”People’s hero’, the man, who pursued social reforms,

a man, ”who fought for the poor”.

Many people, including the prime minister of Barbados, mrs Mottley [who

gave a statement at the death of ex president Bouterse], called Desi Bouterse

”charismatic”

Memorial services were being held, as in Suriname as in the Netherlands

[Suriname’s former colonizer, where many Surinamese live nowadays]

and not a few numer of people let their tears flow freely and recalled Bouterse’s 

”social engagement”

Now it is true, that in his time as president, Bouterse pursued a number of

social reforms, which meant a lot for many people in a poor country 

like Suriname, but there was handled irresponsibly with the financial

resources of the country with as a consequence, that after two periods of

presidency, Bouterse plunged Suriname into near-bankruptcy.

And not to forget:

Bouterse greatly enriched himself and his political friends at the cost

of the Surinamese people.

We call that theft and corruption!

People should realize that yet apart from the misery he brought to

thousands and thousands of young peole with the opening of

the country to the drug trade.

But there is more….

Bouterse appeared on the Surinamese political scene as the leader

of the 25 february 1980 military coup, with which he overthrew the

democratic system.

After an initial false-friendly Period, soon sordid human rights violations

made their appearance:

The death, after a suspicious police intrrogation, of alleged contra coup plotter,

the Surinamese ex KNIL [former Dutch colonial Army in then Dutch East Indies,

since 1948 Indonesia] military Fred Ormskerk [1980], the arrest and detention without trial of former politicians, the execution of contra coup plotter major Hawker, lying wounded on a brancard, [march 1982], with as one of the darkest events, the arrest and extrajudicial execution [after torture] of fifteen political opponents of

the Bouterse military regime, theDecembermurders [december 1982]!

The two courageous women’s marches as a protest against the Decembermurders must be mentioned here and deserve an honourable

page in Surinamese history!

Then major Horb, former right hand man of Bouterse, died under suspicious

circumstances in a police cell, after his arrest. [ February 1983]

After the Decembermurders, Bouterse c.s. established a dictatorship,

that would last until 1987, when the first free elections took place.

During the civil war with former bodyguard Brunswijk [leader of

the Jungle Commando], one of the worst human rights violations

under Bouterse took place:

In the maroon village Moiwana, more then 39 civilians were

killed by the National Army under responsibility of commander in Chief, Desi

Bouterse/A mass slaughter and crime against humanity!

In 1987 Bouterse established his political party NDP [that led a big defeat

at the 1987 elections!] and during the years Bouterse made himself popular

with populist and nice sounding speeches, presents to his political fans and

some social reforms.

That may be so, but fact remains, that Bouterse and co are guilty of

theft, torture, executions and mass slaughter: Crimes against humanity.

Because of the ”Saint Declaration” of Bouterse, this Letter is written.

So that his crimes will not be forgotten.

Astrid Essed

Amsterdam

The Netherlands

SEE ALSO FROM THE SAME NEWSPAPER:

GUYANA TIMES

SURPRISE…..ON BOUTERSE

8 JANUARY 2025

Surprise… on Bouterse

Your Eyewitness must say he was quite dumbfounded when he read the tributes of the Guyanese delegation to the funeral of ex-Surinamese dictator Desi Bouterse. Your Eyewitness is quite aware that we Guyanese – as good colonial subjects – imbibed the British stiff upper lip tradition expressed in Latin, “De mortuis nil, nisi bonnum – of the dead, speak only the good”. But jeez, our delegates were so over the top!! “One of the Caribbean’s great souls”, crooned ex-president Donald Ramotar!! Doesn’t say much about the Caribbean of Loverture and Cuffy, does it??!!
Criticising Western nations’ support for Israel’s genocidal actions in Gaza and Ukraine’s stance against Russia, Ramotar declared, “It is those same morally bankrupt and decadent politicians that have persecuted Comrade Bouterse. Those are the same ones that persecuted and accused him of all types of things.”
Now, whatever else Bouterse might’ve achieved, can the Guyanese politicos who offered those peans to his glory forget he was CONVICTED by a Surinamese Court of ordering the 1982 round up, torture and murder of FIFTEEN civil society critics – including lawyers, journalists, and a university professor – of his 1980 “Sergeants’ coup”, that led to a seven-year military dictatorship??
The former dictator had conceded “political responsibility”, but had insisted that since he wasn’t present for the killings – known as the “December murders – he shouldn’t be prosecuted.” He had unsuccessfully tried to push through an amnesty law after being elected in 2010. Then, in 2016, he had ordered Suriname’s Attorney General to halt legal proceedings for alleged “national security” reasons. A court rejected that.
All of us know that there’s no morality in international politics, where nations cold-bloodedly pursue their interests; but, surely, we gotta draw the line somewhere when it comes to political leaders murdering their own citizens for merely expressing their opinions.
To say – as the Guyanese ex-president did – that Bouterse was for the ordinary working people, and then use this as an excuse for canonising him as a national hero is really too much.
Would he say the same about Forbes Burnham, whom a Commission of Inquiry concluded was responsible for the assassination of Walter Rodney?? Burnham was also for “the little man”, wasn’t he?? And he wasn’t actually at Bent and George Streets when Gregory Smith detonated that bomb which blew away Rodney’s face, was he??
Most interestingly, Joseph Harmon – who had been a major in the GDF then – said Burnham had picked him to discuss an “international issue” with Bouterse – the Suriname military dictator!! “From that day onwards, we have had long meetings,” reminisced Harmon fondly.
After a 2004 MOU signed between Bouterse’s party and the PNC, according to Wikileaks, Bouterse’s son took weapons into Buxton!!

…on Exxon’s reach??
Your Eyewitness is surprised at the continued war of attrition being waged by a recalcitrant minority to force the Government to “force” Exxon to the “renegotiation table”!! Yet, these are the same people who snicker at Cheddi Jagan’s “naivete” in denouncing the Americans as “imperialists” who were sucking out our wealth and enriching themselves. Now, your Eyewitness has emphasized that, with changed circumstances, the reactions of countries may also change. For example, by 1990, Gorbachev’s Glasnost had made Cheddi acceptable to the Yanks – cause their interests weren’t threatened no mo’.
But ideological affinity ain’t the only interest, and in fact mightn’t even be the most important one to the Yanks. American business was, is, and will always be numero uno – around which all others revolve. So, do these “negotiators” think Exxon does not influence its government when it comes to protecting its interests in an age where energy security trumps all?? Remember Tillerton??
And please…we’re no Canada, or even Newfoundland, when it comes to breaking the sanctity of contracts!!

…confession?
In explaining its stubborn efforts to forge a coalition of opposition parties to contest the 2025 General Elections, the remnants of Rodney’s party admitted their motivation: “WPA realistically cannot win an election on its own”!!
You think ever?

ANP

https://nos.nl/artikel/2549595-surinaamse-oud-president-desi-bouterse-79-overleden

EX-PRESIDENT DESI BOUTERSE

MAIL ASTRID ESSED TO THE GUYANA CHRONICLE/”DESI BOUTERSE IS NO ”PEOPLE’S HERO”/THIEF/DICTATOR/CRIMINAL AGAINST HUMANITY/[LETTER TO THE EDITOR]

Desi Bouterse is no ”People’s hero/Thief/Dictator/Criminal against humanity

Astrid Essed

From:astridessed@yahoo.com

To:gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Sat, Jan 11 at 3:45 AM

Letter to the Editor,

Dear Editor,

Shortly before Christmas former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse died

at the age of 79.

And almost immediately he was depicted as a sort of Saint by ”

birds of various feathers”

So in the Surinamese parliament, the ”Nationale Assemblee”,

Bouterse was called ”a courageous leader”, a ”great son” and ”inspiring”

Others called him a ”People’s hero’, the man, who pursued social reforms,

a man, ”who fought for the poor”.

Many people, including the prime minister of Barbados, mrs Mottley [who

gave a statement at the death of ex president Bouterse], called Desi Bouterse

”charismatic”

Memorial services were being held, as in Suriname as in the Netherlands

[Suriname’s former colonizer, where many Surinamese live nowadays]

and not a few numer of people let their tears flow freely and recalled Bouterse’s 

”social engagement”

Now it is true, that in his time as president, Bouterse pursued a number of

social reforms, which meant a lot for many people in a poor country 

like Suriname, but there was handled irresponsibly with the financial

resources of the country with as a consequence, that after two periods of

presidency, Bouterse plunged Suriname into near-bankruptcy.

And not to forget:

Bouterse greatly enriched himself and his political friends at the cost

of the Surinamese people.

We call that theft and corruption!

People should realize that yet apart from the misery he brought to

thousands and thousands of young peole with the opening of

the country to the drug trade.

But there is more….

Bouterse appeared on the Surinamese political scene as the leader

of the 25 february 1980 military coup, with which he overthrew the

democratic system.

After an initial false-friendly Period, soon sordid human rights violations

made their appearance:

The death, after a suspicious police intrrogation, of alleged contra coup plotter,

the Surinamese ex KNIL [former Dutch colonial Army in then Dutch East Indies,

since 1948 Indonesia] military Fred Ormskerk [1980], the arrest and detention without trial of former politicians, the execution of contra coup plotter major Hawker, lying wounded on a brancard, [march 1982], with as one of the darkest events, the arrest and extrajudicial execution [after torture] of fifteen political opponents of

the Bouterse military regime, theDecembermurders [december 1982]!

The two courageous women’s marches as a protest against the Decembermurders must be mentioned here and deserve an honourable

page in Surinamese history!

Then major Horb, former right hand man of Bouterse, died under suspicious

circumstances in a police cell, after his arrest. [ February 1983]

After the Decembermurders, Bouterse c.s. established a dictatorship,

that would last until 1987, when the first free elections took place.

During the civil war with former bodyguard Brunswijk [leader of

the Jungle Commando], one of the worst human rights violations

under Bouterse took place:

In the maroon village Moiwana, more then 39 civilians were

killed by the National Army under responsibility of commander in Chief, Desi

Bouterse/A mass slaughter and crime against humanity!

In 1987 Bouterse established his political party NDP [that led a big defeat

at the 1987 elections!] and during the years Bouterse made himself popular

with populist and nice sounding speeches, presents to his political fans and

some social reforms.

That may be so, but fact remains, that Bouterse and co are guilty of

theft, torture, executions and mass slaughter: Crimes against humanity.

Because of the ”Saint Declaration” of Bouterse, this Letter is written.

So that his crimes will not be forgotten.

Astrid Essed

Amsterdam

The Netherlands

ANP

https://nos.nl/artikel/2549595-surinaamse-oud-president-desi-bouterse-79-overleden

EX-PRESIDENT DESI BOUTERSEMAIL ASTRID ESSED TO THE JAMAICA GLEANER/”DESI BOUTERSE IS NO

”PEOPLE’S HERO/THIEF/DICTATOR/CRIMINAL AGAINST HUMANITY/[LETTER TO THE EDITOR]

Desi Bouterse is no ”People’s hero”/Thief/Dictator/Criminal against humanity

Astrid Essed

From:astridessed@yahoo.com

To:letters@gleanerjm.com

Fri, Jan 10 at 3:01 PM

Letter to the Editor,

Dear Editor,

Shortly before Christmas former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse died

at the age of 79.

And almost immediately he was depicted as a sort of Saint by ”

birds of various feathers”

So in the Surinamese parliament, the ”Nationale Assemblee”,

Bouterse was called ”a courageous leader”, a ”great son” and ”inspiring”

Others called him a ”People’s hero’, the man, who pursued social reforms,

a man, ”who fought for the poor”.

Many people, including the prime minister of Barbados, mrs Mottley [who

gave a statement at the death of ex president Bouterse], called Desi Bouterse

”charismatic”

Memorial services were being held, as in Suriname as in the Netherlands

[Suriname’s former colonizer, where many Surinamese live nowadays]

and not a few numer of people let their tears flow freely and recalled Bouterse’s 

”social engagement”

Now it is true, that in his time as president, Bouterse pursued a number of

social reforms, which meant a lot for many people in a poor country 

like Suriname, but there was handled irresponsibly with the financial

resources of the country with as a consequence, that after two periods of

presidency, Bouterse plunged Suriname into near-bankruptcy.

And not to forget:

Bouterse greatly enriched himself and his political friends at the cost

of the Surinamese people.

We call that theft and corruption!

People should realize that yet apart from the misery he brought to

thousands and thousands of young peole with the opening of

the country to the drug trade.

But there is more….

Bouterse appeared on the Surinamese political scene as the leader

of the 25 february 1980 military coup, with which he overthrew the

democratic system.

After an initial false-friendly Period, soon sordid human rights violations

made their appearance:

The death, after a suspicious police intrrogation, of alleged contra coup plotter,

the Surinamese ex KNIL [former Dutch colonial Army in then Dutch East Indies,

since 1948 Indonesia] military Fred Ormskerk [1980], the arrest and detention without trial of former politicians, the execution of contra coup plotter major Hawker, lying wounded on a brancard, [march 1982], with as one of the darkest events, the arrest and extrajudicial execution [after torture] of fifteen political opponents of

the Bouterse military regime, theDecembermurders [december 1982]!

The two courageous women’s marches as a protest against the Decembermurders must be mentioned here and deserve an honourable

page in Surinamese history!

Then major Horb, former right hand man of Bouterse, died under suspicious

circumstances in a police cell, after his arrest. [ February 1983]

After the Decembermurders, Bouterse c.s. established a dictatorship,

that would last until 1987, when the first free elections took place.

During the civil war with former bodyguard Brunswijk [leader of

the Jungle Commando], one of the worst human rights violations

under Bouterse took place:

In the maroon village Moiwana, more then 39 civilians were

killed by the National Army under responsibility of commander in Chief, Desi

Bouterse/A mass slaughter and crime against humanity!

In 1987 Bouterse established his political party NDP [that led a big defeat

at the 1987 elections!] and during the years Bouterse made himself popular

with populist and nice sounding speeches, presents to his political fans and

some social reforms.

That may be so, but fact remains, that Bouterse and co are guilty of

theft, torture, executions and mass slaughter: Crimes against humanity.

Because of the ”Saint Declaration” of Bouterse, this Letter is written.

So that his crimes will not be forgotten.

Astrid Essed

Amsterdam

The Netherlands