Jennifer Simons elected Suriname’s 1st woman President after historic coalition deal

Person in News – Jennifer Simons

•  Suriname’s Parliament has elected Jennifer Simons as the country’s first woman President, marking a landmark in its political history.
• Political Background:
  • She belongs to the National Democratic Party (NDP), which won 18 seats in the May 25 parliamentary elections.
  • The ruling Progressive Reform Party (PRP) of President Chan Santokhi secured 17 seats.
  • Smaller parties won the remaining 16 seats, forcing coalition negotiations.
• Election Mechanism:
  • The President of Suriname is elected indirectly by the National Assembly (unicameral legislature).
  • A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament to be elected.
• Profile:
  • Jennifer Simons is a medical doctor by profession.
  • She previously served as the Speaker of the National Assembly.
• Significance:
  • First woman President in Suriname’s history.
  • Elected at a time when Suriname is on the cusp of a predicted oil boom, which could transform its economy.
  • Seen as a consensus candidate following a near tie between ruling and opposition parties.
    
    Updated - July 7, 2025 8:43 AM | News On Air