Background and Relevance of Jennifer Geerlings-Simons
Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, aged 71, has been elected as Suriname’s first female president by the National Assembly on Sunday. This historic moment comes after the ruling party failed to present a candidate to challenge her.
Suriname’s Political System and Election Process
In this South American nation neighboring Brazil and Guyana, the president and vice-president are elected by a two-thirds majority in the 51-seat Parliament. Geerlings-Simons’ party, the National Democratic Party (NDP), secured 18 seats in the recent elections on May 25. However, through alliances with five smaller parties, they managed to secure the presidency.
Geerlings-Simons’ Vision and Commitment
Geerlings-Simons acknowledged the responsibility that comes with her new role, stating, “I am very aware of the responsibility that now rests on our shoulders. This responsibility is further emphasized by the fact that I am, indeed, the first woman to occupy this position.”
She further expressed her commitment, saying, “I accept this position to serve. I will utilize all my knowledge, strength, and insight to bring our nation’s wealth within reach of all our people, with a special focus on our youth and those who have yet to experience optimal development.”
Gregory Rusland, aged 65, will assume the role of vice-president. Their inauguration is scheduled for July 16, following the end of current president Chan Santokhi’s term.
Political Landscape and Opposition
The Progressive Reform Party (VHP), led by Santokhi, did not present a candidate and became the sole opposition party in Parliament with 17 seats. In a statement on Thursday, the VHP indicated that they deemed it unfeasible to “assume governmental responsibilities.”
Santokhi urged the new government to govern with an open mind, avoiding resentment and division. Instead, he called for fostering trust, listening to the people’s voice, and upholding democratic promises.
Suriname’s Recent Oil Discovery and Future Prospects
Since gaining independence from the Netherlands in 1975, Suriname has faced challenges including rebellions and coups. However, the recent discovery of significant oil reserves promises a brighter future.
Starting in 2028, Suriname’s revenue is expected to surge when oil exploitation begins in the first block, producing 220,000 barrels daily—44 times the current production.
During her campaign, Geerlings-Simons emphasized ensuring the population benefits from these anticipated oil revenues.
Jennifer Geerlings-Simons’ Background and Political Journey
A medical professional by training, Geerlings-Simons joined the NDP in 1996 when elected to the National Assembly. Following her party’s victory in the 2010 elections, she served as Parliament President for a decade. Although reelected in 2020, she withdrew from active politics until her recent return in 2024 to lead the NDP.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Jennifer Geerlings-Simons? She is a medical professional and politician who has been elected as Suriname’s first female president.
- What is her political background? Geerlings-Simons joined the National Democratic Party (NDP) in 1996 and served as Parliament President from 2010 to 2020. She returned to active politics in 2024 to lead the NDP.
- Why is her election significant? Geerlings-Simons’ election marks a historic moment as Suriname’s first female president, following the ruling party’s failure to present a candidate.
- What are the recent developments in Suriname’s political landscape? The Progressive Reform Party (VHP), led by former president Chan Santokhi, did not present a candidate and became the sole opposition party in Parliament. Santokhi urged the new government to govern with an open mind and uphold democratic promises.
- What impact will the recent oil discovery have on Suriname? Suriname’s revenue is expected to increase significantly starting in 2028 when oil exploitation begins, providing a potential boost for the nation’s development.
