Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC has extended condolences to the people of Suriname following the passing of former President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, who died following a medical emergency on Monday.
In a statement, Mrs. Persad-Bissessar said Mr. Santokhi’s life was defined by service to his country as he began his career in law enforcement, rising to the rank of Police Commissioner, before entering public life as Minister of Justice and Police and later as President from 2020 to 2025.
She also highlighted his leadership at the CARICOM level.
“At the regional level, his leadership as Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in 2022 helped to advance cooperation among our member states and strengthen the bonds that unite the Caribbean region. Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname share close and enduring ties, rooted in our common history, cultural connections, and cooperation within the region. As leaders, we both carried the responsibility of serving diverse societies shaped by shared heritage, including strong Indo-Caribbean traditions that form an important part of our regional identity.
In this moment of loss, I join with the people of Trinidad and Tobago in honouring his life and service and in standing in solidarity with the people of Suriname. His legacy of public service, discipline, and commitment to national development will endure and will redound to the benefit of his country and the wider region for years to come.
May his family find comfort, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.”