Former military leader to lose parliamentary seat

Suriname\'s former military leader, Desi Bouterse could be forced to resign from parliament because of a prolonged absence.



A statement from the speaker of the House Paul Somohardjo said Mr. Bouterse has not attended sittings for over a year.



Mr. Somohardjo said that the constitution states an MP will lose his seat if absent for five consecutive months.



He said in Mr. Bouterse\'s case, that period is long overdue.



Mr. Bouterse blamed his absence on the ruling coalition government, which he accused of preventing him from taking part in several special house committees.



The former military leader had opted unsuccessfully for a seat in the special committee for Defence.