Desi Bouterse, Suriname’s Former Dictator and President, Dies at 79

Desi Bouterse, the former dictator and elected president of Suriname, died at 79 after a brief illness. He rose to power through a coup in 1980, faced various legal challenges, and was ultimately convicted for political killings. His death has prompted responses from current leaders and supporters, solidifying his controversial but significant place in Suriname’s history.

Desi Bouterse, the former dictator and president of Suriname, passed away at the age of 79, as announced by the government of the nation on a Wednesday. Originally gaining power through a coup in 1980, he became a fugitive following accusations of political violence and the execution of opponents. After a period in exile, he returned to power in 1990 and served as president from 2010 to 2020.

Bouterse remained notably popular among Suriname’s poor and working-class citizens. His death on Tuesday sparked rumors and was attributed to a brief illness. His remains were transferred to his residence in Paramaribo, where family and supporters gathered to pay their respects early on Christmas Day.

Condolences were expressed by current President Chan Santokhi, who encouraged the populace to maintain calm and await further information regarding Bouterse’s passing. The National Democratic Party (NDP) also mourned his death, particularly praising his contributions to the country.

Bouterse first staged a coup on February 25, 1980, and rose to power as a military leader. Despite an arrest warrant issued by Interpol in connection with a drug trafficking conviction in 1999, he was insulated from extradition due to his political status. In 2019, he was convicted in absentia for the 1982 execution of fifteen individuals but denied any wrongdoing, asserting his trial was politically motivated.

Ultimately, Bouterse was designated to serve a 20-year sentence in a specialized detention facility after his conviction was upheld in December 2023. However, he never surrendered and lived in seclusion until his death, all while hinting at a potential return to politics.

Desi Bouterse’s life was marked by a rise to power through military coups and a legacy defined by political violence and drug trafficking accusations. His death at 79 has drawn various responses from the public and political sphere, highlighting his complex influence in Suriname. Despite his controversial past, Bouterse maintained a support base until the end of his life. The situation necessitates a careful response from the current government to prevent unrest in the wake of his passing.

Original Source: www.france24.com