A former military dictator who seized power in a coup and later became the president of Suriname, known for his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses.
Dési Bouterse is a name synonymous with controversy in Surinamese politics. He is a military officer, politician, and convicted murderer who served as President of Suriname from 2010 to 2020, leaving a legacy marred by allegations of human rights violations and drug trafficking.
Born on October 13, 1945, Bouterse rose to prominence in 1980 when he conducted a military coup, establishing a period of military rule in Suriname. During this time, he was the de facto leader of the country, a position he maintained until 1987. It was during this period that the December murders of 1982 took place, an event that would later lead to his prosecution.
In 1987, Bouterse founded the National Democratic Party (NDP), which would become a dominant force in Surinamese politics. The party's popularity led to Bouterse's election as President of Suriname in 2010, with his Megacombinatie (Mega combination) alliance winning the parliamentary elections.
Bouterse's presidency was marked by controversy, with many accusing him of human rights violations committed during his military rule. Despite this, he was granted amnesty by the National Assembly in 2012. However, the trial was later forced to continue, and in 2019, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the December murders.
In addition to the December murders, Bouterse is also suspected of directing the Moiwana massacre in 1986, which targeted a village of Maroons during the Surinamese Interior War.
In 1999, Bouterse was sentenced in absentia to 11 years imprisonment by a Dutch court for trafficking 474 kg of cocaine. He has consistently maintained his innocence, claiming the star witness was bribed by the Dutch government. However, according to US diplomatic cables leak released in 2011, Bouterse was active in the drug trade until 2006.
Bouterse's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While his presidency marked a period of relative stability in Suriname, his alleged human rights violations and drug trafficking convictions have left a dark stain on his reputation. Despite this, he remains a significant figure in Surinamese politics, with many continuing to support him.
Despite his controversial legacy, Bouterse remains a significant figure in Surinamese politics, with many continuing to grapple with the complexities of his presidency.
90 Years Old
The 6th President of Suriname, serving from 2000 to 2010, known for promoting national unity and economic development in the country. He played a key role in shaping Suriname's modern political landscape.
Born in 1910
First President of Suriname, leading the country to independence from the Netherlands in 1975 and serving as a symbol of national pride. He was a dedicated educator and politician who fought for Suriname's autonomy.
