PARAMARIBO, Suriname, May 9, CMC -Suriname has declared two days of national mourning ahead of Saturday’s funeral of former president Jules Wijdenbosch.
Wijdenbosch, who served as head of state in this Dutch-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country between 1996 to 200, died on April 30, two days before his 84th birthday. The authorities said during the two days of national mourning, the flags are flown at half-mast.
“Words fail to describe this loss. May it be a comfort that we will cherish his memory in our hearts forever. We owe him a great debt of gratitude for his years of contribution to the development of our Republic. May he now rest from his labors and may the eternal light shine upon him for the length of his days – that is our wish and prayer,” said President Chandrikapersad Chan Santokhi, after signing the condolence book.
The government said that out of respect and reverence for the former president and his family, the planned launch of the Royalty for Everyone programme that was originally scheduled for Friday, has been postponed to May 14.
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