ECNETNews, January 6, 2025: Former Guyanese President Donald Ramotar has sharply criticized Israel, alleging human rights violations against Palestinians in Gaza and condemning the international community for its inaction. This statement was made during the funeral service honoring the late Surinamese President Desi Bouterse in Paramaribo, Suriname.
Ramotar’s comments, delivered in front of thousands of mourners, also included a critique of the Netherlands for its unwavering support for Israel. Alongside Ramotar, Joseph Harmon, a former opposition leader from Guyana, was one of the few international figures to speak at the event that commemorated Bouterse’s legacy.
Call for Caribbean Unity and Action
During his address, Ramotar called on the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to adopt a more proactive stance on global humanitarian concerns, specifically advocating for Israel’s expulsion from the United Nations as a measure of solidarity with the Palestinian people. “It is not an extreme position,” he stated, referencing South Africa’s prior suspension from the UN during apartheid as a parallel.
Honoring Bouterse’s Legacy
In expressing condolences to Bouterse’s family, Ramotar reflected on their longstanding friendship, describing Bouterse as “one of the Caribbean’s great souls” who significantly influenced Suriname’s socio-political landscape. He praised Bouterse’s commitment to true independence and self-reliance for Suriname, emphasizing that for Bouterse, independence transcended mere symbolism.
Critique of Global Powers
Ramotar condemned the so-called “imperialist forces” targeting Bouterse, accusing countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands of hypocrisy in their silence regarding human rights abuses in Gaza and the West Bank. He remarked, “It is those same morally bankrupt politicians who persecuted Comrade Bouterse,” and criticized the Dutch judiciary for dismissing calls to halt arms shipments to Israel, also denouncing the U.S. for using its UN veto power to shield Israel from scrutiny.
Tributes and Reflection
