Government
UN expressed its concern following violent protests in Suriname
By Shanieka Smith
Staff Writer
#Suriname, February 24, 2023 – A violent protest, which includes looting and vandalism at the National Assembly in Suriname on February 17, resulted in over 100 people being detained.
In response to new policies set by the Suriname government that resulted in removing subsidies such as fuel, residents decided to protest. Many people were injured during the protest; police officers had to break up the protest using teargas.
President Chandrikapersad Santokhi said such indiscipline would not be tolerated.
Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, in expressing his concern about the situation, said while freedom of expression is a human right, protests should be peaceful.
Authorities are currently searching for Political Activist Stephano ‘Pakittow’ Biervliet, who is reportedly among the protest organizers.