“Early elections in exchange for clemency”

Opposition leader Paul Somohardjo and top officials from Pertjajah Luhur (PL) recently came up with a proposal aimed at early elections. They suggested that Desi Bouterse should be given clemency in exchange in the December 8 trial in exchange for organizing early elections. MP Somohardjo explained that this would prevent calamities in Suriname.

He pointed out that Bouterse is doing everything he can to keep his presidency and the immunity that goes with it. “Mister Bouterse I know that you are afraid of stepping down and losing your immunity. If that is the case just say so. I am willing to grant you clemency in exchange for elections,” said Somohardjo.

The Leonsberg Agreement that was inked in 1987 is deemed as a good example of closing another deal with Bouterse as government leader. The Leonsberg Agreement which was inked by the then military regime and the politicians was aimed at restoring democracy in Suriname. “As part of that agreement Bouterse was given amnesty by Parliament in exchange for elections. That is what happened. He has already been granted amnesty in the past. Now we want to guarantee that he will be granted clemency.” Somohardjo fears that the sphere in the country will turn grisly as a result of the growing protests against the government’s policy.

The protestors have already demanded the resignation of the Bouterse administration. Meanwhile the December 8 trial has been resumed with Bouterse as the prime suspect. “I want to make sure that he does not use all means at his disposal against the people in order to stay in power. Maybe there will even be a civil war. I do not want us to become a second Venezuela. That is why I am offering him the assurance that I will cooperate with getting him clemency in exchange for elections.”

A two third majority of votes in Parliament is needed to amend the constitution. The support of Somohardjo and the PALU would make it possible to reach the two third majority. Bouterse has made it clear on several occasions that he will not step down. “Be patient. You can try again in 2020,” said Bouterse as he referred to the fact that the general elections are scheduled to take place in May 2020.