Protest on hold due to Holy Week

The protest that was launched last week by the labor unions has reportedly been put on hold due to the fact that Christians are currently observing the Holy Week which is also known as the last week of Lent. The labor unions plan to resume the protest after Easter. Wilgo Valies, chairman of the Teachers’ Association (BvL) and the Alliance of Teachers in Suriname (ALS), on Monday told the protestors that one must keep all religions in mind. “For now we will hit the brakes and next week we will step on the gas pedal.” Union Chairman Robby Naarendorp pointed out that some logistical problems had occurred but that the protest still had its full strength. Monday’s protest reportedly started later than planned and there were also some problems with the sound truck. The organizers of the protest then decided to adjust their schedule. Maisha Neus, one of the activists, explained that she had initially decided to opt out of the protest because she did not know what the objective of the labor unions. But she changed her mind after she had a talk with union officials during the weekend. “We found a middle course and together we will reject the policy of the government. That is what unites us even if we have a different vision,” said Neus. Naarendorp made it clear that the unions are preparing a bigger protest for after Easter. Union officials did not announce when the protest will be resumed.