Suriname’s parliament elects Jennifer Geerlings-Simons as first female president amid economic challenges

Suriname’s National Assembly elected Jennifer Geerlings-Simons as the country’s first female president, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s political landscape. The 71-year-old physician and former parliamentary speaker secured the presidency unopposed after her National Democratic Party (NDP) formed a coalition with five other parties, collectively holding 34 of the 51 seats in the National Assembly. This coalition achieved the two-thirds majority required to elect the president.

Geerlings-Simons’ NDP emerged from the May 2025 general elections with 18 seats, narrowly surpassing the Progressive Reform Party (VHP) of outgoing President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, which secured 17 seats. The remaining 16 seats were distributed among smaller parties, making coalition-building essential for forming a government.

In her inaugural address, Geerlings-Simons acknowledged the weight of her new role, emphasizing the significance of being the first woman to serve as Suriname’s president. She pledged to utilize her knowledge and experience to ensure the nation’s resources benefit all citizens, with a particular focus on youth and underprivileged communities.

The NDP, founded by former President Desi Bouterse, who passed away in December 2024, has been a dominant force in Surinamese politics. Geerlings-Simons’ leadership marks a new chapter for the party, which has faced challenges in reshaping its image following Bouterse’s controversial tenure.

Economically, Suriname is navigating significant challenges. The country is burdened with approximately $400 million in annual debt servicing, a situation that has been exacerbated by austerity measures implemented during Santokhi’s administration. These measures, aimed at stabilizing the economy, led to widespread public unrest and protests. Geerlings-Simons has indicated plans to stabilize state finances, including improving tax collection, particularly from the small-scale gold mining sector.

Looking ahead, Suriname anticipates economic transformation with the commencement of offshore oil production by 2028. This development is expected to significantly boost the nation’s economy, potentially positioning Suriname as a regional energy competitor. However, economists caution that the country must address its current financial obligations before these anticipated revenues materialize.

Geerlings-Simons’ inauguration is scheduled for July 16, 2025. As she prepares to assume office, the nation watches closely, hopeful that her leadership will guide Suriname through its economic challenges and into a new era of prosperity.