Jennifer Simons arrived at the Suriname parliament, where she was elected president.
Suriname has made history. On Sunday, the country’s parliament elected Jennifer Simons as its first female president. The 71-year-old doctor and former speaker of the National Assembly will lead Suriname at a pivotal moment, just as the nation braces for a major oil-driven economic transformation.
A Historic Win for Jennifer Simons
Simons’ appointment followed weeks of political negotiations. The parliamentary elections held on May 25 led to a near tie between the two major parties. Simons’ National Democratic Party (NDP) secured 18 seats, narrowly edging out President Chan Santokhi’s Progressive Reform Party (VHP), which won 17. The remaining 16 seats went to smaller parties, making coalition-building crucial.
Suriname elects its president indirectly. Members of the National Assembly vote, and a candidate needs a two-thirds majority to win. On Sunday, Simons received resounding support through a vote by acclamation, officially making her the president-elect. She will take office on July 16.
Simons Promises Inclusive Leadership
In a heartfelt acceptance speech, Simons vowed to serve all Surinamese. “I come into this office to serve, and I will use all my knowledge, strength and insight to make our wealth available to all of our people,” she said.
Simons emphasized her commitment to the youth and marginalized communities. She acknowledged the symbolic weight of her election as the first woman to lead the nation. “I do not need many words. My thanks and we will get to work,” she concluded, drawing applause from lawmakers.
Changing of the Guard
President Chan Santokhi, who failed to secure a second term, graciously conceded. The 66-year-old former police commissioner admitted to shortcomings during his leadership, especially regarding protections for vulnerable groups. “I take responsibility and hope I will be remembered for my commitment,” he said.
Santokhi also confirmed that he will continue to serve Suriname as a member of parliament after stepping down from the presidency.
Oil Boom on the Horizon
Simons steps into office just as Suriname prepares for a potentially transformative oil boom. The nation’s first major offshore oil project, led by TotalEnergies, is expected to begin production by 2028. The Gran Morgu field holds promising reserves that could position Suriname as a serious contender in the global oil market, alongside neighboring Guyana.
Guyana’s economy saw a staggering 43.6% growth last year due to its own oil discoveries. Experts believe Suriname could follow a similar path. Yet, despite this economic potential, there was little public debate during the campaign about how future oil revenues should be managed.
Coalition Deal Seals Simons’ Presidency
Simons’ rise to the presidency was made possible by a coalition agreement among six parties, finalized just two days after the May election. The deal also named National Party of Suriname (NPS) leader Gregory Rusland as vice president.
Simons brings a wealth of political experience to the role. She served as the speaker of the National Assembly for ten years, until 2020. In the recent election, she secured over 41,700 votes, placing second only to Santokhi.
A Legacy Tied to a Controversial Past
Simons also carries the legacy of the NDP, founded by the late Desi Bouterse. Bouterse was a dominant force in Surinamese politics for decades. However, his legacy was tarnished by a 2019 conviction for the 1982 murders of 15 political opponents. When the conviction was upheld in 2023, Bouterse went into hiding and died on Christmas Eve at an undisclosed location.
Despite the shadow of Bouterse’s past, Simons is determined to lead Suriname into a new era—one marked by opportunity, progress, and unity. Her presidency symbolizes change, not just for the country’s politics, but for its future.
