Government and trade unions reach no agreement regarding electricity rates.

PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC—The Suriname government says it held “extensive” discussions with “cooperating trade unions” on Tuesday night, but no solution had been reached regarding the increase in electricity rates.

A statement issued by the Suriname Communications Service (CDS) quoted President Chandrikapersad Santokhi indicating that his government has implemented a broad package of measures to improve the population’s lives.

“The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is undergoing a reform program in our country, which requires necessary but tough measures,” he said.

According to the government, diesel must be reduced by SRD10 (one SRD = 0.03 cents) per liter, electricity by SRD260 per connection, and “gas bombs” by 28 pounds, more than SRD400 each.

Several opposition parties, including the main opposition National Democratic Party (NDP), have described the increased electricity rates as “illegal,” claiming that the correct legal procedure was not followed.

The Trade Union Federation of Suriname (C-47), which warned that the protest action earlier this week would last longer if the government does not respond favorably to its concerns, was among the unions at the meeting on Monday night.

According to the government statement, the unions presented at the meeting with Natural Resources Minister David Abiamofo, indicating that the government had followed an “extensive dialogue with stakeholders before determining the cost price.

“The government has chosen a method that takes no risks and guarantees society’s energy supply. During the consultation, it was agreed that technical discussions will be held by both the government and the trade unions about data and modalities used in determining energy prices.”

The statement said that a week has been set aside for this exercise, after which the government and the trade unions will meet again.

President Santokhi said that the government is determined to promote the interests of society and take concrete measures to improve living conditions.

“If mistakes were made, they will be corrected,” he added.