the funeral service of former chairperson Indradebie Marijke Djwalapersad last Wednesday. Relatives, friends, colleagues and acquaintances assembled at the residence of Djwalapersad at Leiding to say one last goodbye to the first ever female chairperson of Suriname’s parliament. Chairman Adhin pointed out that Djwalapersad wrote history when she became the first ever Hindustan woman to lead parliament.

“We have lost a great daughter of the nation,” said Adhin who added that Djwalapersad gave others and in particular women the opportunity to contribute to the construction of the nation. Former president Chandrikapersad Santokhi, Wanica North West District Commissioner

Glenda Kranenburg and a relative also gave a speech. President Jennifer Simons personally offered her condolences to the relatives and also bid farewell to Djwalapersad. Santokhi explained that the passing of

Djwalapersad is not only a personal loss but also a loss for our country. “That is why we are gathered here today. We are not only here to mourn but also to express gratitude for who she was and what she meant for Suriname. The historical role of Djwalapersad as the first ever female chairperson of the National Assembly will be mentioned in the history books and she has set an example for others. She paved the way for other women and youths so that they could also make a contribution to politics and governance. Her work as a pioneer deserves permanent recognition,” said Santokhi who is the current chairman of the VHP. Santokhi explained that the political path of Djwalapersad was not always simple. “They did not understand all of her choices within the VHP but she was always convinced that she acted in the nation’s best interest. “Today her contributions outweigh the differences that once existed. Let us remember her as a woman if courage, perseverance and love for her country.”