Preparations for the traditional parade on November 25, marking Independence Day, have been underway since the beginning of November. The Suriname Police Force (KPS) has also started its drills for the event. While preparations are progressing well, there are still issues to address, including a shortage of footwear and uniforms. Many police officers who signed up to participate in the parade do not yet have the necessary attire.
John Krishnadath, chief inspector and chairman of the preparation committee for November 25, told Suriname Herald that this is a recurring issue each year. “It’s a policy matter, and there’s nothing we can do about it. For us, it’s important that the drills continue so we can participate in the parade on November 25. Some officers are practising in their blue uniforms when they should be wearing gray ones, which is not ideal,” Krishnadath said. Due to the lack of proper equipment, some officers have been sidelined as they lack the necessary items to participate.
Krishnadath hopes everything will be resolved in time for November 25, allowing the police to present an impressive parade to the president. Within KPS, the Intendance Department is responsible for supplying uniforms and footwear. “They determine what can be provided and what needs to be procured. Financially, everything has been approved, and we’re working on the preparations. However, the department operates on a limited budget, and I’m unsure whether it will cover all the necessary items. That said, those responsible are paying attention to this issue,” Krishnadath explained.
Recruits have also been unable to join the drills because they lack the required footwear and gray uniforms, Krishnadath added. “The mobilization is proceeding according to plan, though. All police units will participate in the parade,” he assured, despite the challenges facing KPS.
Inspector Milton Kensmil, vice-chairman of the presidential committee, emphasized that the issues within the police force must be resolved quickly. Regarding KPS’s participation in the parade, there is no doubt, as the order was given by President Chan Santokhi. “As one of the armed forces, the police must do everything possible to fulfill this assignment. Ideally, everything would be well-organized, but we must work with the resources we have,” Kensmil said.
Despite limited resources, every effort will be made to organize a quality parade, with a focus on presenting the nation positively to the world. “We understand the situation, but this does not absolve policymakers of their responsibility to support police personnel. We will do our best, but we cannot stretch beyond our limits,” Kensmil stated.
The presidential committee will hold a press conference next week to share more details about the event. “The implementation will be supervised by the Office of the President. As for the police, there are no foreign guests confirmed yet, but we have informed the chief of police about arrangements for international participants. He has been given the space to work with his foreign counterparts on further arrangements,” Kensmil added.
