Suriname elects its first female president amid economic crisis

Suriname has made history by electing its first female president, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, following a tumultuous political landscape marked by economic instability. Geerlings-Simons, a 71-year-old physician and former parliamentary speaker, was officially backed by Suriname's National Assembly, which held the vote on a Sunday in early July 2025. This election occurred after a May contest where no clear winner emerged, leading to the formation of a coalition aimed at unseating the incumbent president, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, whose administration faced intense scrutiny over corruption and austerity measures. Under Santokhi's leadership, Suriname's economy struggled, prompting calls for International Monetary Fund assistance to manage public debt and government subsidies. The nation is poised for economic change as offshore oil reserves are set to be tapped, with potential revenue expected to significantly alter the country's financial landscape. Geerlings-Simons will serve as president up until 2030, with the anticipation that her presidency will address the challenges posed by public debt, reliance on international assistance, and the necessity for inclusive economic growth that benefits all citizens, particularly the youth and those marginalized in society. Suriname citizens hope for a renewed focus on social responsibility and sound economic policy as the country prepares for its first major oil production within a few years.