At a party meeting in Paramaribo, Desi Bouterse called on his supporters to remain calm before the appeal ruling in the December murders. At the same time, he spoke of a “political process” and warned the Court of Justice that the process “must have no consequences for the State of Suriname.”

Bouterse said the country was already suffering from major problems, referring, among other things, to the economic crisis. Bouterse, 78, also gave those present the opportunity to express their opinions on whether he should submit a report to the Court of Justice on Wednesday. People collectively made their voice heard with a loud “NO!” The court will issue its ruling on Wednesday regarding the murders that occurred in December.

There were at least several thousand people at the NDP meeting in Bouterse. There were performances, singing and poetry readings. When attendees had the opportunity to express their opinions, people took the stage. Party members called on Bouterse to avoid the session and stay at home. Previously, Bouterse was always present at court hearings.

“We will not cause chaos, we are civilized people,” Bouterse said. “We will hold out until the 2025 elections.”

The Court of Justice will rule on Wednesday on the liability of Boutiers and four others in the murders that occurred in December 1982. The former army chief, president and current opposition leader has already been sentenced twice to 20 years in prison. The appeal began last year; Justice has been demanded again 20 years.

On the night of 7 to 8 December 1982, fifteen men were tortured and murdered at Fort Zealandia, in the Surinamese capital of Paramaribo. They were opposed to the military regime at the time led by Boutros. He and a group of censors came to power in a coup in 1980.

The fifteen people, including journalists, union leaders, and lawyers, were trying to carry out a coup, according to the regime.

If Bouterse is convicted, there can be no appeal. After previous convictions, Bouterse remains a free man. This time the Justice Department explicitly asked for 20 years with an arrest warrant.

Bouterse himself called the December murders “regrettable” in his closing argument in July, but he never expressed remorse. He has denied personal involvement. He considers himself only politically responsible.