Tributes Pour in as Former Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi Passes Away
Synopsis
Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the former President of Suriname, has passed away at 67. Indian PM Modi expresses his sorrow over the loss, highlighting Santokhi's contributions to strengthening India-Suriname relations. This poignant moment reflects on the deep ties between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
Chandrikapersad Santokhi was the former President of Suriname.
He served from 2020 to 2025 and was leader of the Progressive Reform Party .
PM Narendra Modi expressed condolences and honored Santokhi's contributions.
Santokhi took his oath in Sanskrit , highlighting cultural ties with India.
His heritage traces back to Indian indentured labourers from Bihar .
Paramaribo, March 31 (NationPress) The former President of Suriname, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, has sadly passed away at the age of 67, as reported by local media on Tuesday (Indian time). The exact cause of his demise remains undisclosed.
Santokhi held the presidency from 2020 to 2025 and was the leader of the Progressive Reform Party. He also served as the country’s justice minister prior to his presidency.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, fondly remembering their friendship and Santokhi's contributions to enhancing bilateral relations between India and Suriname.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened by the unexpected passing of my friend, Mr. Chandrikapersad Santokhi Ji. This loss is not only profound for Suriname but also for the global Indian community,” PM Modi mentioned in a post on X.
Reflecting on their interactions, he remarked, “I cherish the numerous meetings we shared. His unwavering dedication to Suriname and his commitment to fostering India-Suriname relations were evident in our discussions. He had a unique affinity for Indian culture, notably taking his oath in Sanskrit.”
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the citizens of Suriname during this sorrowful time. Om Shanti,” he added.
The Prime Minister also posted photos from their past meetings with the late leader.
Born in Lelydorp, located in the Wanica district of Suriname, Santokhi came from an Indo-Surinamese Hindu family and was the youngest of nine siblings. His grandparents had migrated from Bihar as indentured labourers in the 19th century.
His father worked at the Paramaribo harbor, while his mother was a shop assistant. Due to his early career in law enforcement, he was affectionately nicknamed ‘Sheriff’.
As a prominent leader of Indian descent in a nation where nearly 27 percent of the populace can trace their ancestry to Indian indentured labourers, Santokhi was instrumental in fostering connections with India across various sectors including trade, energy, and culture.
He was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman and had participated as a chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
His oath-taking ceremony in 2020, delivered in Sanskrit—a first for a Surinamese President—symbolized the deep cultural ties with India and celebrated the significant Indian-origin population that descends from 19th-century indentured labourers.
Point of View
The impact of his work continues to resonate.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Chandrikapersad Santokhi's contributions to India-Suriname relations?
Santokhi played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Suriname, focusing on sectors like trade, energy, and culture.
What is the significance of Santokhi's oath-taking ceremony?
His oath-taking ceremony in Sanskrit marked a historic moment, celebrating the cultural connection between India and Suriname's Indian-origin population.
How did PM Modi react to Santokhi's passing?
PM Modi expressed deep sadness and paid tribute to Santokhi, highlighting their friendship and his contributions to bilateral relations.
