Suriname: Strikes Continue

National Intelligence Daily

Negotiations between the government and striking workers at the country’s two bauxite facilities are under way, but some workers have indicated they will resort to violence if necessary to achieve their demands.

The US Embassy reports that a self-appointed spokesman for the striking workers who has ties to the radical faction of the regime arranged a meeting between strikers and government officials on Tuesday to discuss grievances. Worker demands thus far reportedly deal only with economic issues.

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The manager at the US-owned Suralco plant believes that trouble is possible there today when workers are paid for the strike period. According to the US Embassy, Prime Minister Alibux is convinced the company is directly involved in the strike and may be trying to topple the government.

The electric power plant at Paranam, meanwhile, remained shut down yesterday. About a third of the capital is without power.

Comment: The government appears to be trying to reach a compromise with the workers. Prolonged negotiations, however, are likely. Army Commander Bouterse probably hopes that the current discussions will appease the strikers temporarily. So long as the strike does not spread or provoke additional public disorder, Bouterse presumably will continue to avoid a confrontation. If the situation deteriorates further, however, he may take firm action.

Date:
December 29, 1983
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