Chandrikapersad Santokhi, former President of Suriname, has passed away at the age of 67, according to local media reports. The cause of his death was not immediately disclosed.
Santokhi served as President from 2020 to 2025 and was also the leader of the Progressive Reform Party. Earlier in his career, he held the position of Justice Minister and was widely respected for his contributions to governance and law enforcement.
Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over his demise, recalling their personal rapport and Santokhi’s efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between India and Suriname.
“Deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of my friend and the former President of Suriname, Mr. Chandrikapersad Santokhi Ji. This is not only an irreparable loss to Suriname but also to the global Indian diaspora,” PM Modi said in a post.
Reflecting on their interactions, the Prime Minister noted that Santokhi’s dedication to public service and his commitment to enhancing India-Suriname ties were evident in their engagements. He also highlighted Santokhi’s deep appreciation for Indian culture, recalling that he took his oath of office in Sanskrit — a rare and symbolic gesture.
Santokhi was born in Lelydorp in the Wanica district and hailed from an Indo-Surinamese Hindu family. His grandparents had migrated from Bihar as indentured labourers in the 19th century, reflecting the historical ties between the two nations.
Known for his early career in law enforcement, he earned the nickname “Sheriff.” As a leader of Indian origin in a country with a significant Indo-Surinamese population, he played a key role in strengthening ties with India across sectors such as trade, energy, and culture.
He was honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman and had participated in Pravasi Bharatiya Divas as a chief guest, further underlining his connection with India and the global Indian community.
Santokhi’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Suriname’s political history, while his legacy continues through his contributions to governance and international relations.
