At a time when we are again saddled with short-term political gains by being all too quick to sign documents and cooperate, Henry Does and Ronald Venetiaan call for a return to moral values in their interview, on ABC Suriname's program. They argue that true democracy is not about quick power grabs, as the parties are doing now, but about unwavering loyalty to human rights, rule of law and truth-telling. For entrepreneurs, this is not a casual moral appeal, but a rock-solid condition for predictable business and sustainable growth that directly determines Suriname's prosperity. Political parties must talk about policy, and its implementation, not talk about who gets what at the first opportunity.
Mr. Does warns that hasty legislation without thorough internal deliberation can undermine the foundations of the democratic rule of law. The signing of coalition agreements should never be the echo of opportunism, but should reflect that all party members have had their voices heard in the deliberations. And only when historical wrongs are openly acknowledged and honor is legally secured will social trust in our institutions be restored.
At the economic level, Does insists on long-term thinking, so stop the one-sided pursuit of oil and gas, and fully commit to a sustainable energy vision. Entrepreneurs who invest in renewable technologies now will soon reap the benefits of a political course that puts principles first and legislates with a view to broad social prosperity. Mr. Does called for principles and firmness of principle: "Nothing is more pragmatic than building energy by staying true to your historic identity and core values." That energy that is "chi" drives a political culture that does not sink into opportunism, but has an enduring eye for justice and progress.
To this, Mr. Venetiaan adds in another interview, also in the program on ABC Suriname, that integrity begins with respecting party history and involving experienced voices. Decisions on statements of intent become legitimate only when they have been openly tested in a congress. Criticism should never lead to departure, but rather to action within the party through letters, motions and member meetings. In this way policy remains well-founded and we prevent historical values from being killed for short-sighted political gain. You might add, that whoever passes laws without thorough internal consideration robs entrepreneurs of the transparency and stability that investments need. So the ignorance of hasty decisions hinders growth.
Bold signal to entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs can no longer stand by while conflicts of interest and weak laws stifle our marketplace. Making demands is not an option, it is a duty. Demand full transparency from any political alliance and withhold cooperation from executives who undermine our rule of law. Insist on legislation that enforces integrity in every economic measure and refuse deals with parties that deny their own history. Only then will we enforce a climate in which investment capital flourishes.
Mr. Does and Mr. Venetiaan forge a wonderful plea: Surinamese and entrepreneurs must actively stand up and stay involved in the public debate. Delve into party procedures, demand disclosure of statements of intent and support initiatives for historical truth-telling. Only by sticking to our principles will we build a democracy that radically and sustainably strengthens our society and our economy.
