News In Brief

January 10, 1984

Military leader removes entire Suriname Cabinet

Suriname's left-wing military strongman has fired his government and canceled tax and price increases that had triggered widespread industrial unrest. Lt. Col. Desi Bouterse, who took power in a February 1980 coup, announced resignation of the government of Prime Minister Errol Alibux in a television broadcast Sunday night.

Colonel

Bouterse

said Mr. Alibux appointed last March, made policy mistakes by failing to consult with the people.

Higher income taxes to take effect Jan. 1 prompted strikes three weeks ago in the bauxite mining industry, the mainstay of the former Dutch colony's economy.

Suriname, ailing financially, is seeking $100 million in credit from the International Monetary Fund.