while others referred to him as a legend and a great mentor. “A great son of the nation. I cherish the wise lessons that I learnt from you,” said other people. Last Wednesday afternoon local and regional media announced that former president and former chairman of the National Party Suriname (NPS) had died at age 89.

Hesdy Pigot, chief member of the board at the NPS, pointed out that he was shocked to hear the news. He revealed that Venetiaan had been struggling with his health for a while. “We had not expected it so soon but that’s life. We had hoped that he would also be present during the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Suriname’s Independence Day,” said Pigot who added that the honorary chairman of the NPS passed away with his family by his side. “Venetiaan played an important role in the development of the country and was especially known for his efforts when it came to education, democracy and good governance. His legacy will live on in the values that he stood for. He started his career in education and eventually became minister of Education and later on he was elected president thrice. My sincere sympathy goes out to his family, friends and all who were dear to him,” said

President Jennifer Simons who is currently in neighboring Brazil. “At various moments he gave me valuable insight and advice which I appreciated greatly. The passing of Mister Venetiaan leaves a big emptiness behind. He will be greatly missed. In these sad moments I offer my sincere condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, his party the NPS and the entire Surinamese nation. May he rest in peace,” said Former President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.

Ronald Venetiaan who was born in Paramaribo on June 18th, 1936 is officially the only Surinamese president who was elected thrice and who therefore served 15 years in office.