Suriname Situation Report #4 – 14 December 1986

As of 1630 hours,

Surinamese Developments

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Our Embassy also reports that rebel leader Brunswijk appears to be gaining political legitimacy both with Dutch voters and with the Surinamese exiles. Brunswijk’s supposed alliance with exiles leaders such as former Prime Minister Chin a Sen is receiving wide publicity.

  • Brunswijk’s enhanced standing is potentially troublesome for the Dutch. Officials offer grudging respect for his ability to challenge Bouterse. They have little respect for either Brunswijk’s character or political ability. The Dutch probably hope that Brunswijk will play only a secondary role to more respectable anti-Bouterse leaders — especially Chin a Sen, who is well regarded in The Hague — in any new government.
  • Brunswijk’s role is becoming increasingly important in the propaganda war over Suriname. Special envoy Udenhout made a point of castigating Brunswijk as a “common criminal” in discussions with US officials. Udenhout scorned claims by exiles that they could restore democracy to Suriname, and called on the US to support “moderate” elements in the current government. He especially asked the US not to follow the Dutch lead in believing atrocity stories or in viewing the political situation in Paramaribo.

Other Developments

  • Nothing of significance to report.
Date:
December 14, 1986
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