PARAMARIBO — Chandrikapersad Santokhi, Suriname’s former president who led the nation from 2020 to 2025, died suddenly on Monday at age 67, current President Jennifer Simons announced.
Simons, who succeeded Santokhi, shared the news via a statement on social media, praising his “many years of service in various public offices.” As chairman of the Progressive Reform Party, Santokhi had also served as justice minister from 2005 to 2010, shaping key policies during his tenure.
A cause of death has not been disclosed, leaving the nation awaiting further details as tributes pour in from across the political spectrum.
Santokhi’s leadership navigated Suriname through economic challenges, including oil discoveries and post-pandemic recovery, cementing his legacy as a steady hand in the small South American country’s turbulent politics.
Flags flew at half-mast across Paramaribo on March 30, with Simons calling for a period of national mourning to honor his contributions.