Jennifer Simons Elected as Suriname's First Woman President Amid Expectations of Oil-Driven Growth

Paramaribo, July 7 — In a historic move, Jennifer Simons has been confirmed as the first female president of Suriname, securing the backing of parliament on Sunday and ushering in a new political chapter as the South American nation prepares for a potential oil boom.

Simons, a 71-year-old physician and former parliamentary speaker, was elected president by Suriname’s National Assembly, which selects the head of state through an indirect vote requiring a two-thirds majority. Her confirmation follows a highly competitive general election on May 25 that resulted in a near-deadlock between the ruling party and the opposition, prompting a broad six-party coalition agreement to back her leadership.

The National Democratic Party (NDP), led by Simons, secured 18 seats, narrowly edging out incumbent President Chan Santokhi’s Progressive Reform Party, which captured 17 seats. The remaining 16 seats were split among smaller parties.

“I come into this office to serve,” Simons told lawmakers in a brief but resolute speech. “I will use all my knowledge, strength, and insight to make our wealth available to all of our people.”

Acknowledging the symbolic weight of her election, she added: “I am very aware of the responsibility now placed on our shoulders, a responsibility compounded for me by the fact that I am the first woman to hold this office.”

Simons pledged to focus on youth development and to uplift communities historically left behind. Her remarks were met with applause in parliament, which also confirmed Gregory Rusland, leader of the National Party of Suriname (NPS), as vice president.

End of Santokhi Era

Outgoing President Chan Santokhi, 66, a former police commissioner who came to power in 2020, conceded gracefully. He congratulated Simons and reflected on his own tenure, which faced mounting criticism over rising inequality and insufficient protections for Suriname’s most vulnerable citizens.

“I accept responsibility for the shortcomings,” Santokhi said. “I hope I will be remembered for my dedication, and I will continue to serve as a member of parliament.”

Turning Point Amid Energy Opportunity

Simons' leadership comes at a pivotal time for Suriname, a former Dutch colony that gained independence in 1975. The country stands on the brink of an economic transformation with the anticipated launch of Gran Morgu, a major offshore oil and gas project led by TotalEnergies. Production is expected to commence in 2028, potentially positioning Suriname alongside neighbouring Guyana, whose economy surged 43.6% last year due to its own petroleum windfall.

Despite the stakes, this year’s election campaign saw minimal public debate over how future oil revenues should be managed, leaving significant questions about fiscal policy and social investment for Simons' administration to address.

Simons was officially elected on July 7, although the coalition deal was reached days after the May parliamentary vote. She is scheduled to be inaugurated on July 16, marking the beginning of a government that will serve until 2030.

A Complex Legacy

Simons, who served as Speaker of Parliament for a decade until 2020, is also known for her close association with the NDP’s founder, Desi Bouterse, a former military ruler and two-term president who dominated Surinamese politics for decades. Bouterse, convicted in absentia in 2019 for the 1982 executions of 15 political opponents, died a fugitive last year.

Simons, who garnered over 41,700 votes in the general election—second only to Santokhi—is widely seen as a capable and seasoned political figure, now tasked with leading a fractured legislature and a nation bracing for the profound economic and social impacts of oil wealth.