Why is Dutch the official language of Suriname?

Suriname's official language is Dutch because it was a former Dutch colony. Dutch colonization of Suriname began in the 17th century, and the colony remained under Dutch control until 1975. During this time, Dutch was the primary language of government, education, and commerce in Suriname. After Suriname gained independence in 1975, Dutch remained the official language, although Sranan Tongo, a creole language, is also widely spoken in the country.