Former President and Dictator Desi Bouterse's funeral takes place.

Happy New Year! This week we cover the news regarding former president and dictator Desi Bouterse’s funeral and the release of the autopsy by the Public Prosecution Service to rule out any criminal activity.

Former President and Dictator Desi Bouterse’s funeral took place this past Saturday. It was a day-long event that brought out many of the former president’s supporters and political figures in Suriname.

• The funeral of former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse was marked by a massive public turnout, reflecting his lasting influence. Beginning with a poem, the ceremony transitioned from his residence in Leonsberg to Paramaribo's OCER headquarters, where thousands paid their respects.

• Dressed in military attire, Bouterse's body was viewed through a glass-topped casket. Despite time constraints preventing many from bidding farewell, the service emphasized his patriotism, vision for Suriname, and leadership legacy.

• Speakers called for unity and electoral victory in May 2025 to honor his memory.

  The procession concluded at the Pt. Jagdew Paragh Crematorium. The day-long farewell, which included tributes from citizens, political figures, and military honors, lasted over 12 hours and ended with his cremation.

• The event underscored Bouterse's prominent 45-year role in Suriname's history.

Attorneys of Desi Bouterse have demanded the release of Bouterse’s autopsy to be able to rule out any criminal activity for Bouterse’s death.

• Attorneys for Desi Bouterse’s family have demanded that Attorney General Garcia Paragsingh justify the public release of Bouterse’s autopsy report by January 2, emphasizing violations of confidentiality and legal principles.

• They also request discussions on compensation measures within a month to address the harm caused.

• The Public Prosecution Service (OM) performed the autopsy to rule out criminal activity. Still, the family’s lawyers argue that the AG unlawfully disclosed private medical information without consent, violating professional secrecy and constitutional rights. Legal action will follow if the AG fails to comply.

Staatsolie also plans to invest around 2.6 billion dollars in offshore oil development to take advantage of Suriname’s recent oil discoveries.

• Staatsolie plans to invest $2.6 billion in a 20% stake in the GranMorgu offshore oil project (Block 58). This will be funded through bond issuance, loans, partnerships, and internal funds.

• TotalEnergies has committed $10.5 billion to the project, with inflation and contingencies raising the estimated total to $13.2 billion.

• In 2025, Staatsolie will focus on offshore exploration with five committed wells and efforts to attract investors to uncontracted areas.

• Onshore, it aims to maintain current production levels and discover new reserves in areas like Coronie and Uitkijk.

• Additionally, Staatsolie is enhancing the Brokopondo hydropower plant’s capacity and plans to establish a 30 MWp solar energy facility, further diversifying its energy portfolio with green initiatives.