Day of Liberation and Innovation 2024: February 25 is annually observed as the Day of Liberation and Innovation in the Republic of Suriname, the smallest nation in South America. Sergeant-Major Dési Bouterse and fifteen other military sergeants who refused to acknowledge the coup’s legitimacy led the military revolution that overthrew the corrupt regime in power on February 25, 1980. This tropical nation, comprised of numerous ethnic groups, is an ecotourism hotspot due to its breathtaking natural scenery and hospitable inhabitants. Previously recognized as Revolution Day, the date has been formally renamed as the Day of Liberation and Innovation as of 2018.
The Day of Liberation and Innovation in History
Suriname, which was formerly Dutch Guiana, was a Dutch plantation colony until it attained independence on November 25, 1975. Dési Bouterse, a military sergeant, led a violent coup against the corrupt administration of Suriname on February 25, 1980. This event is also referred to as the “Sergeants’ Coup.” The Group of Sixteen, comprised of Bouterse and fifteen other military sergeants, instituted a military dictatorship in the nation. As chairman and de facto commander of the governing National Military Council of Suriname, Bouterse ascended to power.
Soldiers fired upon and subsequently set fire to the Central Police Station on the day of the uprising. Today, it is referred to as a “monument of the Revolution.” In addition to restricting press freedom, the regime enforced an evening curfew and permitted the publication of a single newspaper under rigorous censorship. Between 1980 and 1988, a series of military administrations came into power. While he appointed nominal presidents, Bouterse maintained his position as the de facto leader and controller. Between 1980 and 1991, the terrible regime committed numerous human rights violations.
December 7 and 8, 1982, marked the occurrence of Bouterse’s most heinous crimes. Seen as the ‘December murders,’ these were the tortured and executed executions of fifteen prominent individuals who were accused of criticizing Bouterse’s military dictatorship or had ties to the March coup d’état attempt of that year. There were two attorneys and a journalist in the party. As one of Bouterse’s numerous heinous deeds, he directed soldiers to slaughter defenseless women and children in the village of his adversaries. Additionally, he was acquitted in absentia for cocaine trafficking in the Netherlands. Bouterse was convicted and sentenced to twenty years in prison in November 2019 for the homicides that occurred in December. He intends to appeal his conviction.
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FAQs for the Day of Innovation and Liberation
Does a dictator still rule Suriname?
No, Suriname is presently a unitary assembly-independent democratic republic.
At this time, which individual holds the presidency of Suriname?
Chan Santokhi represents Suriname at this time.
Which ethnic groupings comprise Suriname?
Suriname is comprised of the following ethnic groups: 1.9% others, 13.4% multiracial, 3.8% Amerindian, 1.5% Chinese, 0.3% European, and 21.7% Maroon-Bushinengue.
Observing the Day of Innovation and Liberation
Observe a moment of silence.
A significant number of lives were lost ruthlessly throughout the military dictatorship that Dési Bouterse oversaw. In remembrance of the fallen, let us observe a moment of silence.
Opposition to oppression
Numerous nations, including Suriname, have been subjected to the tyranny of militant dictators. Speak out against oppression and injustice in your manner, regardless of where you are in the world.
Make others aware
Disseminate information by encouraging others to share this article on social media and conducting historical research.
Five Essential Facts About Suriname
Geographical factors
Situated in northern South America, Suriname is marginally larger in area than the state of Georgia in the United States.
Size
In South America, Suriname is the smallest sovereign state.
The populace at
The approximate population of Suriname is 575,000 individuals.
Value of currency
The Surinamese dollar is the operational currency of Suriname.
The economy
The economy of the developing nation of Suriname is predominately reliant on its copious natural resources.
DAY OF LIBERATION AND INNOVATION DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 25 | Sunday |
| 2025 | February 25 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | February 25 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | February 25 | Thursday |
| 2028 | February 25 | Friday |
