(de Ware Tijd) PARAMARIBO – It is possible that Surinamese in the Diaspora with the legal status of ‘Persons of Surinamese Origin’ (PSA) will get the right to vote in Suriname’s elections. Legislator Marinus Bee, an initiator of the PSA bill, tells dWT that the debates in Parliament would show whether there is support for giving PSAs the right to vote.
The initiators are considering giving this right to PSAs who have lived in Suriname for a certain number of years, Bee says. He does emphasize, however, that the Surinamese nationality will remain a requirement to be a candidate in elections, as well as for government positions. For the latter there is an emphatic requirement by law to possess the Surinamese nationality. Surinamese in the Netherlands are pleased with the PSA bill, as it grants some special rights to Surinamese in Diaspora, including the right to work in Suriname without a work permit.
Chairman Robby Makka of the Kenniskring Nederland – Suriname calls the PSA a “breakthrough, a historic moment and a recognition of and tribute to Surinamese abroad.” He believes the PSA status should be brought in line with that of Suriname in the Caricom. That is why the PSA must also grant the status of Caricom citizens to Surinamese in Diaspora. Mahin Jankie, chairman of the Vereniging Surinaamse Nederlanders (VSN) believes it is praiseworthy that the coalition has submitted this bill. He criticizes the Nieuw Front governments that have neglected this issue. Jankie considers the PSA additional legislation for all those to whom the nationality agreement does not apply. NPS Netherlands’ Owen Venloo praises the initiative. He believes that after 37 years of independence, a foundation is being laid for a comprehensive Diaspora policy. “In short, the talents and expertise of Surinamese outside Suriname can be utilized now for Suriname’s development.”
