Prime Minister condoles the demise of former Suriname President

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, expressed grief over the sudden death of former Suriname President Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji calling it an irreparable loss not only for Suriname but also for the global Indian diaspora. India’s Press Information Bureau said Modi recalled his personal interactions with Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji and praised his public service as well as his role in strengthening ties between India and Suriname.

In his message, Modi said he was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the death of Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji, whom he described as a friend. He said Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji’s commitment to Suriname and his efforts to deepen bilateral relations were evident in their meetings. Modi also remembered Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji’s affection for Indian culture, noting that he had won admiration for taking his oath of office in Sanskrit.

Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji, who served as Suriname’s president from 2020 to 2025, died suddenly on March 30, 2026, at the age of 67, according to international media reports and official statements cited in coverage of his passing. He was widely known in Suriname for a long career in public life that included service as police commissioner, justice minister, parliamentarian, and later head of state.

Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji was known for reviving and pursuing the investigation into the 1982 December killings, one of the country’s most sensitive political cases, which ultimately contributed to the conviction of former ruler Desi Bouterse. During his presidency from 2020 to 2025, he also tried to stabilize Suriname’s economy through IMF-backed reforms after taking office during a severe economic crisis. While those measures drew criticism and sparked protests because of their social cost, they were still seen as part of a broader attempt to restore order to the country’s finances.

His death prompted condolences from several leaders, with tributes highlighting both his years of public service and his standing among the Indian-origin community in Suriname and beyond. Modi extended his condolences to Mr Chandrikapersad Santokhi ji’s family and to the people of Suriname.

Source: PIB