PARAMARIBO – Several people who are members of the vulnerable groups recently complained that they still have not received the extra purchasing power boost of SRD 1,000 although the government has announced it several months ago.
They are puzzled by the delay in payments especially given the fact that the SPSB bank announces via its Facebook page that the money is being paid. Several people explained that it is not clear who qualifies for the payments and how the payments take place. They have not received any extra money since the announcement in March 2026. A senior citizen pointed out that he feels helpless because of the whole situation. “I want to know who actually receives the SRD 1,000. I want to know if I will get it with retroactive effect when I finally get approved. If I do not get it with retroactive, it will not be fair because others started receiving it months ago”, said the senior citizen. Other people also have similar complaints. Some of them still have not received a clear explanation as to why they still have not received the extra purchasing power boost. They explained that this money can make a huge difference due to the rising prices of food, medicines and utility services. The vulnerable groups hope that the government and the Ministry that is responsible for welfare payments will shed some light on the matter soon. They made it clear that transparency and communication are essential to removing all uncertainty and to maintain the trust of the people in the social programs.
