PM Mottley pays tribute to former Surinamese President Desi Bouterse

Prime Minister Mia Mottley has described former Surinamese President Desi Bouterse as one of the most charismatic leaders of the region.

Bouterse, died on Tuesday at the age of 79.

Below is the full text of Prime Minister Mottley’s tribute:

I have met many, many people in this job since I became Head of Government in May 2018. But there are some whose personality is so strong that they leave an indelible mark on all those with whom there has been interaction.

Desi Bouterse was one such man. His was a history ranging from freedom fighter to Head of State of the Republic of Suriname. Whether you agree with him or not, you would have to appreciate the force of his personality.

And, so as 2024 draws to a close the Caribbean Community bids farewell to one of its most charismatic leaders, the former President of the Republic of Suriname, Desi Bouterse, who dominated politics in the Republic of Suriname for four decades.

President Bouterse was the first of my CARICOM colleagues to engage with me during my first Heads Of Government Conference in July of 2018 in Montego Bay, Jamaica.It was through his eyes and heart that I learnt of the of the rich culture of this melting pot on theSouth American continent and, thus began my love for the country and its people.

During my visits to Suriname, he took me all across the country, including the Brokopondo District, interacting with people from all walks of life in his unique way, whether it was to sing with the griots or to hug children who gathered around.

On my last visit to Suriname in July 2023 during the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference hosted by President Santokhi, I was privileged that Comrade Ralph and I were able to meet Desi and spend time with him much of which was with laughter; but, alas, who knew that would be our last time together.

When he andhis wife, Ingrid, upon learning about our country’s plans in 2020 to build Golden Square Freedom Park, both said a park needs benches so people can sit and enjoy what it has to offer.And with this statement they immediately made a donation of wooden benches made from Surinamese wood as they wanted to enrich the bonds of friendship between our two nations.

I extend condolences on behalf of the people and Government of Barbados to his wife Ingrid, his children and the people of Suriname. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.