Suriname: Friction in the Regime

National Intelligence Daily

The increased political infighting between the two leftist parties supporting the fragile regime of Army Commander Bouterse may provoke a government crisis.

The party that includes People’s Mobilization Minister Sital reportedly opposes the plans of pro-Bouterse Prime Minister Alibux’s party to reconcile with the Dutch and to limit Cuba’s involvement in Suriname.

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Comment: Sital, who is a Marxist, is widely considered to be Havana’s choice as Suriname’s eventual ruler. The Cubans have sponsored him since 1980. Sital’s control of the militia gives him an armed power base and offers him an opportunity to cultivate political support.

Sital and his supporters may intend to make a grab for power, but Bouterse’s military backers are aware of their ambitions and could move to thwart them. In August 1980 Bouterse imprisoned Sital on charges of plotting a coup with Cuba’s complicity.

The Cubans evidently are becoming alarmed about the situation. If Alibux’s party prevails, the regime probably would follow a more cautious policy toward Havana—especially in view of Brazil’s recent concerns. If Sital’s influence prevails, however, increased radicalization of Suriname is likely.

Date:
April 30, 1983
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