PARAMARIBO — The chairman of the Surinamese Police Union, Revelino Eijk, made a compelling plea for people-oriented leadership within the Suriname Police Force during the installation of the new chief of police Melvin Pinas on Friday. Eijk reflected on the recent fatal incident in which a police officer was killed. According to him, this event underlines the harsh reality that police officers face every day. He emphasized that police work is not an ordinary profession, but a calling that involves great risks, often under difficult circumstances and with limited resources.
The association chairman pointed out that behind every uniform there is a person and that policy should therefore never be seen separately from the well-being of police officers. “The way we treat our people directly affects their safety, their functioning and sometimes even their lives.”
“Eijk indicated that the union will continue to adopt a constructive attitude, but reserves the right to take action if agreements are not fulfilled or the position of staff is jeopardized.”
Eijk congratulated the newly appointed chief of police and wished him strength, wisdom and steadfastness. At the same time, he emphasized that the success of his leadership will largely depend on the way in which the staff is treated. According to him, a force can only function effectively when employees feel heard, valued and protected.
In this context, the Police Union advocates structural and transparent cooperation between police management and the union. The importance of regular consultation, open communication, compliance with agreements and respect for the legal position of police officers was pointed out. The union also called for attention to training, career development, mental resilience and better working conditions.
Furthermore, Eijk insisted on a concrete personnel policy aimed at retaining and inflowing personnel, reducing workload and accelerating promotion processes. According to him, these points are not optional wishes, but necessary conditions for a stable and effective police force.
Support for chief of police
Although the union indicated that he was not involved in the appointment of the new chief of police – something that was common in the past, according to Eijk – he stated that the Police Union will nevertheless fully support the new chief of police. At the same time, it was emphasized that cooperation should be based on reciprocity and respect.
Eijk indicated that the union will continue to adopt a constructive attitude, but reserves the right to take action if agreements are not fulfilled or the position of staff is jeopardized. Finally, he pointed out the major challenges facing the force, including increasing crime, capacity pressure and the need for modernization.
According to him, the key to success lies in restoring and strengthening trust, both within the force and in society. “Anyone who chooses justice, transparency and people-oriented leadership chooses a force that stands behind him,” said the association chairman.
