Dear Editor,
The pushback from some quarters in Suriname on the much heralded granting of fishing licenses to our fisherfolk in the Upper Corentyne, looks like the arrangement has fallen through flat. This was a government to government agreement by the presidents of the countries. To date, there has been no public comment on the developing and unfolding situation from the authorities across the Corentyne River. From media reports, it seems those not in agreement and supportive of the arrangement their government in Suriname committed to, are formulating their own rules which appear to be outside of the original agreement. In the meantime our fishermen are left in a state of uncertainty. The authorities across the river should not be on the sideline on this matter but must be clear and definitive on its stance. An agreement was made in good faith and it must be honoured. To do otherwise would be a blot on relations between our two countries. It is hoped this matter can be resolved quickly to the satisfaction and benefit of both sides.
Sincerely,
Shamshun Mohamed