Paramaribo (Suriname) – In a ground-breaking decision, Suriname’s parliament elected Dr. Jennifer Simons as the country’s first female president on Sunday, July 6, 2025. The 71-year-old physician and seasoned political figure will officially take office on July 16, just as the country prepares for a significant offshore oil boom.
Simons Secures Strong Support in Suriname parliament
During an extraordinary public session of the National Assembly, 34 out of 50 parliamentarians voted in favor of Simons. This decisive support followed the May 25 general election, which ended in a near deadlock between the ruling and opposition parties.
The election outcome triggered the formation of a six-party coalition, paving the way for Simons’ nomination. She leads the National Democratic Party (NDP), originally founded by the late Desi Bouterse, a dominant figure in Surinamese politics.
Suriname parliament: Simons Sets a Bold National Vision
Immediately after her confirmation, Simons delivered a unifying message. She promised to leverage Suriname’s growing natural wealth for the benefit of all citizens.
“I come into this office to serve,” Simons said. “I will use all my knowledge and strength to make our wealth available to all of our people.”
She also pledged to prioritize youth empowerment, inclusive development, and national unity.
Her leadership comes at a critical moment. The Gran Morgu offshore oil project, led by TotalEnergies, is set to begin production in 2028, potentially transforming Suriname into a major oil-producing nation.
Gregory Rusland Becomes Vice President
In the same session, parliament also elected Gregory Rusland as Vice President, also with 34 votes. Rusland, the leader of the National Party of Suriname (NPS), brings years of experience as a former Minister of Natural Resources and a respected policy expert.
“My task is clear,” said Rusland. “I will act as a bridge between policy and implementation, between president and society, and between government and opposition.”
Divided Elections, United Outcome
The recent elections left the parliament evenly split. The NDP secured 18 seats, while President Chan Santokhi’s Progressive Reform Party (PRP) won 17. The remaining 16 seats went to smaller parties, making coalition-building essential for forming a government.
Despite initial political uncertainty, parties came together to back Simons and Rusland. Parliament Chairman Dr. Ashwin Adhin described the vote as a moment of historic unity.
“This is a historic moment,” Adhin stated. “Expectations are high, but the message of transparency and good governance gives hope.”
Simons Brings Decades of Political Experience
Simons began her political journey in 1996. She served as Speaker of Parliament from 2010 to 2020, becoming the second woman to hold that role. Re-elected in every general election through 2025, she is also a trained physician with postdoctoral studies in epidemiology and leprosy management.
Her rise to the presidency is widely seen as a milestone for gender equality and a turning point in Suriname’s political landscape.
Leadership Faces Economic and Social Challenges
As optimism grows, challenges remain. Suriname continues to battle economic hardship, social inequality, and calls for institutional reform. While oil revenues offer hope, the success of the incoming administration will depend on how wisely it manages this impending wealth.
Outgoing President Chan Santokhi acknowledged his administration’s difficulties and congratulated Simons.
“Govern with an open mind,” Santokhi urged. “Not with resentment or division, but with trust and unity.”
Suriname parliament: Inauguration Slated for July 16
The official inauguration of President Jennifer Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland will take place on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the National Indoor Stadium (NIS) in Paramaribo.
As Suriname prepares for an economic transformation, the nation entrusts its future to a historic leadership duo. Together, they aim to guide the country with transparency, cooperation, and a commitment to shared prosperity.
Suriname parliament- De Nationale Assemblee
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