Who is Richano Santokhi?

Suriname’s President, Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi, has addressed mounting speculation surrounding the reported detention of his son, Richano Santokhi, by U.S. immigration authorities. The issue comes at a time when global attention is fixed on America’s tough immigration stance under former President Donald Trump’s Executive Order, titled “Securing Our Borders.”

The order mandates the detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants across the United States, triggering widespread debate about human rights and legal due process. Critics argue that the policy fosters inhumane detention conditions, racial profiling, and the exploitation of migrant labor, while undermining America’s commitment to fairness and international law.

Reports suggesting that the president’s son was detained under this policy have sparked significant media attention in both the U.S. and Suriname. However, President Santokhi quickly issued a statement clarifying the situation. He confirmed that his son’s residency application was being processed by the appropriate authorities and that he was receiving full legal representation.

“As a father, I trust that this matter will be handled carefully and fairly in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” Santokhi said. He expressed disappointment over attempts by some political actors to exploit his family’s situation for political or publicity gains, calling for restraint and respect for his family’s privacy.

“In the interest of the privacy and protection of my family, I will confine myself to this explanation,” he added, emphasizing his faith in the legal process and his appeal to the media to maintain professionalism.

While this family controversy unfolds, Suriname continues to make remarkable strides in the global energy sector. The Dutch-speaking CARICOM nation is swiftly becoming a leading player in offshore oil and gas exploration, rivaling regional giants like Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago.

Recent discoveries in the Guyana–Suriname Basin have revealed an estimated 2.4 billion barrels of recoverable oil and 12.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, positioning the small South American country as a critical new energy frontier.

The landmark Block 58 project, operated by TotalEnergies in partnership with APA Corporation, marks the centerpiece of this transformation. Following major finds at Maka Central, Sapakara South, and Krabdagu, the consortium approved the GranMorgu development, which is expected to produce its first oil in 2028. With projected reserves of around 750 million barrels, GranMorgu stands as Suriname’s largest industrial investment to date. The project will deploy an all-electric Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) system designed to cut emissions and eliminate routine flaring — a move that underscores the country’s commitment to sustainability.

Additional exploration by Petronas in Block 52 has yielded discoveries such as Sloanea, Roystonea, and Fusaea, with promising signs of commercial viability. In Block 53, TotalEnergies has strengthened its presence by acquiring a 25% stake, reinforcing long-term confidence in Suriname’s offshore potential.

Analysts predict that by 2030, Suriname could produce over 200,000 barrels of oil per day, cementing its place as a regional oil powerhouse. The nation’s careful balance between political stability, foreign investment, and responsible energy development may define the next chapter in the Caribbean’s economic evolution.

Even amid the personal trials of its leader, Suriname’s national story remains one of resilience, transformation, and global emergence.

FAQs

1. Who is Richano Santokhi?
Richano Santokhi is the son of Suriname’s President, Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi. Reports claim he was detained by U.S. authorities over immigration-related issues.

2. Why was he reportedly detained?
His detention reportedly relates to U.S. immigration enforcement under the “Securing Our Borders” executive order, targeting undocumented immigrants.

3. What is President Santokhi’s response?
The president stated that his son’s residency process is ongoing and that he is receiving legal assistance. He urged the media and public to respect his family’s privacy.

4. What is happening in Suriname’s oil industry?
Suriname has discovered massive offshore oil and gas reserves, attracting international energy giants like TotalEnergies and Petronas, with production expected to ramp up by 2028.

5. How significant is Suriname’s oil potential?
The country is estimated to hold over 2 billion barrels of recoverable oil and could produce up to 200,000 barrels per day by the end of the decade.