Desi Bouterse, the ex-dictator and former president of Suriname, died at 79. He was a fugitive due to his conviction for executing political opponents. Bouterse first seized power in 1980 through a coup and served as president from 2010 to 2020. Current President Chan Santokhi extended condolences and urged calm during this period of mourning among his supporters.
Desi Bouterse, the former dictator of Suriname and subsequently elected president, has passed away at the age of 79, as announced by the government on Wednesday. His death occurred on Tuesday following a brief illness, during which he lived in seclusion due to his status as a fugitive from justice for the execution of political opponents. Bouterse first came to power after leading a coup in 1980, stepping down in 1987 under international scrutiny before returning to power in 1990. In 2010, he was elected president, leading the nation for a decade until his resignation in 2020. Current President Chan Santokhi has expressed his condolences to Bouterse’s family and appealed for calm among the citizens of Suriname, who await further official information regarding the circumstances of Bouterse’s death. Rumors surrounding his sudden demise sparked speculation as his supporters gathered at his residence in Paramaribo on Christmas Day to pay their respects.
Desi Bouterse was a significant figure in Suriname’s political landscape, initially rising to prominence as a military officer involved in a coup. His reign was characterized by periods of political violence and human rights violations, notably the executions of his political adversaries, for which he was later convicted. Despite his controversial past, Bouterse retained substantial support among certain demographics within Suriname, influencing the political environment even after leaving office. The historical context of Bouterse’s leadership—and the ensuing backlash of his authoritarian rule—remains an integral part of Suriname’s complex political narrative.
The passing of Desi Bouterse marks the end of an era for Suriname, a leader whose life was intertwined with the country’s tumultuous political history. Despite facing legal challenges and international condemnation, he maintained a notable degree of support among some citizens. Current leadership now calls for unity and patience as the nation processes his death and reflects on his legacy, which remains contentious.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
