MPs discuss police union’s lightning strike behind closed doors

The nation’s security officials are not happy about the recent lightning strike that was issued by the Surinamese Police Association (SPB). Police officers gathered on the street in front of the police headquarters located along the Duisburglaan to protest against the new duty roster. They reportedly stood on the road and also blocked the road with their cars. The government has taken notice of this strategy and wants to discuss this new phenomenon behind closed doors with the members of parliament.

The new strategy proved to be successful because the union managed to compel the head of the Police Force Suriname (KPS) to switch back to the old duty roster. Acting Minister of Justice and Police Ferdinand Welzijn requested to discuss the matter with parliament behind closed doors. He explained that each statement could make things worse which is why he deemed it best to discuss the matter in a private meeting. Legislators reportedly asked questions regarding the wages of police officers and the payment for overtime. Minister Welzijn explained that the overtime issue would be addressed in order to prevent structural overtime. But that will not be an easy task and officials have not ruled out opposition. “The fact remains that overtime pay has been part of the monthly wages of some members of the armed officers which is why it will not be easy to change this.”