Former Minister of Defence Krishna Mathoera acknowledges that political appointments also took place under the government of former President Chandrikapersad Santokhi. She says she is not proud of this and stresses that, within her own ministry, she deliberately opted for appointments based on competence.
Mathoera made these remarks on the programme ‘Aan Tafel’ on Regio TV. During the discussion, she was confronted with criticism of political appointments under the previous government, including the appointment of Santokhi’s wife.
Mathoera made it clear that she does not defend political appointments merely because they took place under her own government.
“My government did indeed do it. And I am not proud of it and I am not happy about it,” the former minister stated.
According to Mathoera, a minister does not have direct influence over all decisions within a government. She said that she also criticised political appointments within her own party.
Regarding her time as Minister of Defence, she stated that appointments took account of people’s qualifications and suitability, regardless of their political background.
The VHP politician believes transparent recruitment procedures should be introduced for government positions. According to her, suitable candidates should have equal opportunities and political loyalty should not determine who fills positions.
Mathoera sees the failure to implement reforms in this area as a missed opportunity, under both the previous and current governments.
During the interview, she also spoke about her relationship with former President Santokhi. She said she had worked with him for many years and misses him. Although they did not always share the same views, according to her, Mathoera believes Santokhi has made an important contribution to Suriname.
