Suriname ex-dictator and fugitive Desi Bouterse dead at 79

Former Suriname dictator Desi Bouterse dies at 79, leaving behind a controversial legacy and mourning supporters.

Desi Bouterse, the former dictator of Suriname who was a fugitive from justice for the murder of political opponents four decades ago, has died at 79, the government said Wednesday (December 25, 2024).

Still popular with working class citizens of the South American nation, Bouterse — who died Tuesday (December 24, 202 ) — rose to power after a 1980 coup as a young sergeant major in the army. He stepped down in 1987 under international pressure in the wake of political violence he was accused of orchestrating.

He returned to power in 1990 after a second coup, this time without bloodshed. Bouterse left a year later, then was elected president of the former Dutch colony in 2010 and ruled for a decade.

“In anticipation of more detailed and definitive information from official channels, we would like to offer our condolences to the wife, children and other surviving relatives for this loss,” President Chan Santokhi said in a statement.

Rumors began to spread around midnight about the former strongman’s sudden death after a short illness at his hideout.

His body was transferred by unknown people to his residence in the capital Paramaribo, where his family and National Democratic Party (NDP) supporters gathered in the early hours of Christmas Day to bid farewell.

Doctor Rabindernath Khoenkhoen, speaking to reporters, confirmed the time of death at 6:50 am Tuesday (December 24, 2024). He did not provide further details.