Basseterre – Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Chairman of the CARICOM, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, paid a moving tribute to the late former President of Suriname, His Excellency Chandrikapersad Santokhi, hailing his transformational leadership and lasting contributions to regional integration during his funeral proceedings held in Suriname, April 7th.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the CARICOM, Prime Minister Drew reflected on the personal warmth and spirit of cooperation that defined President Santokhi’s leadership. He noted that upon first meeting the late President, “he welcomed me with open arms and a brotherly love,” adding that “his personality was really a personality that reflected one who was willing to cooperate and to welcome all.”
Dr. Drew highlighted President Santokhi’s rapid and impactful rise within CARICOM, noting that although he entered the regional body as a newcomer, he quickly distinguished himself as a capable and forward-thinking leader. He emphasized that within a short span, Santokhi demonstrated strong leadership as Chairman, bringing a renewed sense of purpose and direction to the Community.
Underscoring the late President’s visionary approach, Prime Minister Drew pointed to the breadth of initiatives advanced under his chairmanship, including a strong focus on youth engagement, cultural diversity, climate action, private sector investment, regional security, and transportation. “His introduction to CARICOM brought with it a freshness in approach as well as an innovative perspective… all this he did in just a mere six months as chairman,” Dr. Drew stated.
Chairman Drew further commended President Santokhi’s commitment to strengthening unity across the region and expanding CARICOM’s global partnerships. He noted that Santokhi championed collaboration and consensus-building, while fostering new relationships with international partners and reinforcing ties with longstanding allies.
Prime Minister Drew also reflected on the diversity that defines both Suriname and the wider Caribbean Community, noting that President Santokhi embodied this strength in his leadership. He observed that the late President recognized that the region’s resilience lies in its shared challenges and collective purpose, even as its people reflect a rich mosaic of cultures, languages, and traditions.
In closing, Dr. Drew extended condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Saint Kitts and Nevis, as well as the wider CARICOM Community, to the Government and people of Suriname and to President Santokhi’s family and loved ones.
He paid tribute to a life of service and impact, noting that President Santokhi’s legacy will endure across the region. As he affirmed, “he will be remembered for his innovative contributions which have made CARICOM better… a dedicated son of Suriname, whose influence went through our entire region and indeed, the world.”