⚖️ Pan American Real Estate case investigation in full swing

while the president reflects on the riots and looting of last year

De Brief
February 19, 2024

An anonymous whistleblower has provided more detailed information to the Public Prosecution Service (OM) regarding a payment of over US$8 million to Pan American Real Estate, outlining all actions taken.
The OM has forwarded all received information to the Corruption Investigation Team of the Suriname Police Force, confirming that the investigation is in progress with several interviews conducted and more planned.
Assembly Member Patrick Kensenhuis (NDP) has submitted a letter with supporting documents to Attorney General Gracia Paragsingh, urging action by the end of the month and announcing a support event scheduled for March 1 at the Public Prosecutor's Office.
Concerns have been raised by various Assembly members, particularly from ABOP, criticizing the Pan-American payment and alleging violations of laws. Vice President Ronnie Brunswijk initially opposed the transfer in the Council of Ministers, but President Chan Santokhi's government meeting later approved it.
The agreement for the subdivision permit, signed by the Bouterse government in September 2019, has been questioned, with Pan American allegedly misrepresenting the terms in a letter to OW. Finance & Planning allocated nearly US$8 million for the project, with installments paid until October last year, as revealed by the whistleblower's documents shared with the media.

President Chan Santokhi reflects on the failure of all security and intelligence services to anticipate and respond adequately to the unrest on February 17, 2023.
Despite small signals indicating potential unrest, security and intelligence services were unprepared for escalating the situation, leading to chaos.
Concerns arose when demonstrators violated agreements, became aggressive, and looted and destroyed local businesses.
President Santokhi intervened when the situation deteriorated, facing challenges such as delayed reinforcements and restricted communication.
He took command to secure the president's institute and address the situation but observed systematic destruction and a lack of control.
The unrest was well-organized, with preparations spanning weeks and months, aimed at taking over the administration.
While the financiers of the operation are not entirely clear, investigations are ongoing, indicating potential risks from social dissatisfaction.
Despite the poor performance of security services, the government has learned from the experience.

Rehabilitation of the 25-kilometer Saramacca Canal by International Infra NV began in mid-January under the Saramacca Canal System Rehabilitation Project (SCSRP).
Project manager Vishnu Kalloe describes the project as challenging due to the canal's neglect over 60 years, causing overgrowth and narrowing, impacting water transport and economic activities.
The project is divided into five sections, starting with section five near the Uitkijkluis in Creola and ending with section one near company VABI N.V.
International Infra NV, with experience in waterway cleanup, employs three teams of 15 trained workers each, focusing on environmentally friendly practices.
Funded by a US$35 million World Bank loan, collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works and NIMOS (National Institute for Environment & Development) ensures adherence to project agreements.
Stakeholder consultations inform residents along the canal about the project's progress, highlighting benefits such as improved drainage, shipping access, and recreational opportunities.
The Saramacca Canal, vital for connecting the Suriname and Saramacca Rivers, supports industries like wood and sand, with the project addressing various sections for comprehensive rehabilitation.