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