Meet Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, Suriname’s first female president

Jennifer Geerlings-Simons has made history as the first woman elected president of Suriname.

A veteran politician and former medical doctor, she is set to assume office on July 16, 2025, marking a transformative moment in the country’s political landscape.

Birth

Born in Paramaribo on September 5, 1953, Geerlings-Simons bagged her degree in medicine from Anton de Kom University of Suriname.

Foray into politics

Her political journey began in 1996 when she was elected to the National Assembly, representing the capital district of Paramaribo.

Over the next 24 years, she established herself as a formidable legislator, earning widespread respect across party lines.

From 2000 to 2006, she led the parliamentary caucus of the National Democratic Party (NDP), and in 2010, she was elected Chairwoman of the National Assembly.

She held the role for two consecutive terms until 2020, becoming only the second woman in the nation’s history to lead the legislature.

However, her withdrawal proved temporary.

On July 13, 2024, she succeeded the late Dési Bouterse, former president and polarizing political figure—as leader of the NDP following his death in December 2024. Under her leadership, the party rebounded and

In her legislative capacity, Geerlings-Simons was known for her no-nonsense approach and emphasis on order and discipline, though not without controversy.

Controversy

In 2012, she came under fire from opposition lawmakers who accused her of suppressing debate around the controversial Amnesty Law.

Despite such criticisms, her leadership was instrumental during national emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, during which she headed the Parliamentary Crisis Management Team and helped implement emergency public health measures.

Journey to presidency

Under her leadership, the party rebounded and secured the most seats in the May 25, 2025, general election.

Although the NDP did not win a parliamentary majority outright, Geerlings-Simons moved quickly to build a broad six-party coalition.

By June 1, 2025, the coalition held 34 out of 51 seats, giving her the supermajority required to be elected president.

On July 6, 2025, she was formally elected by the National Assembly and is scheduled to be sworn into office on July 16, 2025. Her vice president-elect is Gregory Rusland.

Private life

Known for her calm, strategic approach, Geerlings-Simons advocates for economic fairness, local industry, and social investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

She married Glenn Geerlings in 1981, and the couple has three children.

She champions transparent governance and policies to ensure Suriname’s growing oil wealth benefits all citizens—not just the elite.

With her swearing-in, Suriname begins a new chapter—one led by a woman deeply rooted in experience, reform, and inclusive development.