The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) expresses its profound sadness on the passing of His Excellency Chandrikapersad Santokhi, former President of the Republic of Suriname.

A dedicated regionalist and a career public servant, his legacy is inextricably linked to the advancement of justice and the strengthening of the Caribbean’s security architecture.

As a member of the inaugural cohort of Ministers of the Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE), he played a pivotal role in shaping the multilateral frameworks that govern regional safety today. His foundational leadership helped establish the strategic direction of CARICOM’s security agenda, ensuring that the rule of law remained a central pillar of regional integration.

Throughout his distinguished career, as Police Commissioner, Minister of Justice and Police, and ultimately as President, he remained a steadfast proponent of CARICOM IMPACS’ mission. His unwavering support for the work of CARICOM IMPACS was instrumental in fostering the collective intelligence and operational cooperation required to address evolving transnational threats.

CARICOM IMPACS extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late former President and to the Government and people of the Republic of Suriname. We join the Region in mourning a statesman whose life’s work fortified the security and integrity of our shared Caribbean space.