Former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse dies at 79
Former Surinamese president and military leader Desi Bouterse has died at the age of 79, according to reports from multiple Surinamese media outlets, including De Ware Tijd and StarNieuws. The family is reportedly preparing an official statement confirming his death.
Bouterse’s body has reportedly been transferred to Paramaribo. Large crowds have gathered at his residence in Leonsberg and the National Democratic Party (NDP) headquarters in Geyersvlijt following news of his passing. Online NDP forums are also flooded with condolence messages, with many expressing disbelief.
Bouterse first rose to power in 1980 after leading a military coup. He ruled Suriname under a military regime until 1988. Following democratic elections, he returned to power as president in 2010 and was re-elected in 2015. His presidency lasted until 2020.
In December 2023, Bouterse was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in the December Murders of 1982, in which 15 political opponents of his regime were executed. He was not present at the sentencing and subsequently went into hiding. Interpol issued a red notice for his arrest, signaling international efforts to apprehend him.
Rumors of Bouterse’s death initially circulated on social media, including a video announcing his passing. However, NDP spokesperson Ricardo Panka told the Suriname Herald that no official confirmation had been received at that time. The reports gained traction as various media outlets began citing credible sources, and by Wednesday morning, multiple outlets confirmed the news.
Key News Suriname reported receiving a tip about his death around midnight, leading to widespread speculation. While details surrounding his death remain unclear, the NDP and Surinamese authorities have yet to release further information.
Bouterse’s death comes after a year of legal and political turmoil. Following his sentencing in 2023, Surinamese police issued a nationwide alert for his capture. Despite his fugitive status, Bouterse continued to make statements to the media.
In an interview with LIM FM shortly after his sentencing, Bouterse claimed the government was open to offering him “special facilities.” President Chan Santokhi refuted these claims, emphasizing that no exceptions would be made under the law. Santokhi stated that the execution of the verdict remained the responsibility of the Public Prosecution Service.
Bouterse also indicated he was in discussions with his attorney about a possible request for clemency, but no formal application had been filed. “It would be improper to make unfiltered statements while in talks with the highest leadership, in this case, the president,” Bouterse said at the time.
