The Indigenous Collective Suriname (IKSur) seeks the release of six men on trial for the May 2023 riots, which resulted in police confrontations leading to fatal incidents. The group argues that the Indigenous community faces systemic discrimination from the Surinamese government and demands recognition of their land rights, highlighting ongoing injustices and a lack of independent investigation into police actions during the riots.
The Indigenous Collective Suriname (IKSur) has publicly called for the release of six individuals who have endured a lengthy trial related to the riots that occurred in Pikin Saron, Suriname, in May 2023. A verdict is anticipated imminently. During the riots, law enforcement faced significant hostility, including a deadly shootout that resulted in the deaths of two men following an assault on a police station. Reports indicate that the insurgents, reportedly from the Kaliña Amerindian tribe, expressed profound dissatisfaction regarding the treatment of indigenous peoples by the Surinamese government. Lloyd HF Read, the chairman of IKSUR, articulated serious concerns regarding prevalent discrimination against indigenous communities in Suriname in 2024, highlighting historical injustices dating back to colonial times. He emphasized the persistence of inequalities regarding education, healthcare, and economic development, asserting, “As the first inhabitants, we were driven from the coastal plain to the interior by the colonials. After Independence, all governments continued discrimination and unjust behaviour.” The situation escalated due to the government’s failure to recognize indigenous land rights, particularly in areas previously designated as reserved territories. Read referenced the Kalina Lokono Verdict of 2015 from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR), which condemned Suriname’s treatment of the Kalina and Lokono peoples. The IACHR’s ruling mandated the government to consult with the indigenous peoples regarding their territories and to grant property titles, which has yet to be fulfilled. Following the riots and alleged police killings of two indigenous individuals, local organizations have sought an independent investigation, which has yet to be granted. Despite being in pre-trial detention for over a year and a half under deplorable conditions, the six men are set to face severe charges. The IKSur contends that the ongoing legal proceedings are laced with prejudice, stating that the government has labeled these individuals as “terrorists” to sway public opinion. They have also urged religious and social organizations to speak out against the injustices faced by indigenous communities, appealing to the authorities for fair treatment under the law. The statement concludes by imploring the supreme judiciary to take fair and impartial action in this matter. The situation surrounding the six detained men encapsulates broader issues of injustice faced by indigenous peoples in Suriname. As such, their case highlights critical discussions regarding governmental accountability, the recognition of indigenous rights, and the need for a fair judicial process.
The events leading to the trial of six men in Suriname stem from a significant incident in May 2023, when protests erupted in Pikin Saron. These protests were spurred by longstanding grievances regarding the treatment of the Kaliña Amerindian tribe by the Surinamese government, including issues of land rights and social equality. The aftermath of this incident has engendered considerable calls for accountability and change, particularly amid claims of police violence against indigenous peoples.
In summary, the current situation in Suriname reflects a profound struggle for justice and recognition of indigenous rights. The call from the Indigenous Collective Suriname for the release of the six men charged following the May 2023 riots emphasizes the broader societal issues related to discrimination and the need for government accountability. This case serves as a critical reminder of the challenges faced by indigenous communities, underscoring the urgent need for equitable treatment and recognition of their rights and dignity.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
