At the funeral service of former Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, Guyana’s Head of State Dr Irfaan Ali offered a deeply reflective and heartfelt tribute, emphasising not only their personal bond but also a shared vision for stronger ties between Guyana and Suriname.
President Dr Ali used the solemn occasion to honour Santokhi’s enduring belief in regional unity, subtly addressing ongoing concerns surrounding the Corentyne River. He recalled how Santokhi consistently viewed the river not as a dividing boundary, but as a symbol of connection between the two nations. In his words, the waterway was “not a line between us but a vein connecting two hearts,” emphasising co-operation over conflict.
This message arrives amid heightened concern following Suriname’s recent decision to impose fees for using the Corentyne River. The move has caused alarm among Guyanese stakeholders, especially in the Berbice region, where economic activities rely heavily on river access. The Government of Guyana has already lodged a formal protest, with President Ali warning that such measures risk creating unnecessary trade barriers and could undermine business confidence.
In previous statements, President Dr Ali emphasised Guyana’s longstanding openness to Surinamese businesses, noting that they have operated freely within Guyana’s economy without discrimination. He suggested that this spirit of fairness and mutual respect should guide bilateral relations in the future.
During his tribute, President Dr Ali reflected on Santokhi’s understanding of genuine partnership—one that extends beyond formal agreements to everyday interactions between people and businesses. President Dr Ali mentioned Mr Santokhi’s encouragement of closer private-sector collaboration, recognising that true growth is cultivated not only in government offices but also along riverbanks and within communities. Mr Santokhi, he noted, envisioned both physical and symbolic bridges—structures of steel as well as trust—to bring the two nations closer together.
The Guyanese President also shared personal memories, recalling their first meeting as leaders. What began as a diplomatic engagement, he said, quickly evolved into a meaningful friendship rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations. He described Mr Santokhi as a brother figure, someone who approached leadership with calmness, clarity, and a willingness to listen.
Reflecting on Mr Santokhi’s leadership style, President Dr Ali praised his steady and measured approach, especially during challenging moments. Rather than responding with confrontation, Santokhi chose dialogue and understanding, demonstrating a commitment to constructive engagement even on sensitive issues.
Mr Santokhi, who passed away on March 30 at the age of 67, served as Suriname’s ninth President from 2020 to 2025. After the May 2025 general elections, he returned to public service as Leader of the Opposition and head of the Progressive Reform Party (VHP).
Concluding his tribute, President Dr Ali reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the work and vision that Santokhi championed. He pledged to carry forward the ideals of cooperation, fairness, and unity that defined Santokhi’s legacy, ensuring that the dreams they shared for both nations remain alive.