Suriname’s President Santokhi announced that elections will be held on May 25, 2025, under a new national proportional electoral system. This change is expected to ensure equal representation, prompting political parties to broaden their appeal throughout the country. Preparations have begun, and a presidential monitoring team has been established to oversee the election process, assuring fairness and transparency.
President Chandrikapersad Santokhi of Suriname announced that the upcoming elections will take place on Sunday, May 25, 2025. In a recent address to the National Assembly, he emphasized the significance of these elections, stating that they will occur under a renewed electoral system, which aims to ensure fairness and transparency. Santokhi noted that preparations for the elections have commenced, reiterating that the organization of the elections is a national responsibility.
The elections will mark a historic transition from a district-based electoral system to a national proportionality system. This change means all citizens’ votes will carry equal weight nationwide, irrespective of their geographic location. Previously, the distribution of parliamentary seats was determined by district populations, leading to discrepancies in representation. Santokhi highlighted the need for constitutional amendments to align electoral regulations with constitutional mandates and international treaties.
During his address, Santokhi highlighted the long-standing sensitivity regarding electoral representation. He expressed that the previously unjust district system was favored due to advantages it provided certain factions. The implementation of national proportionality is expected to facilitate fair representation for all political parties, thereby enhancing political diversity in Parliament.
In favor of unity, Santokhi urged political parties to broaden their appeal across the country rather than focusing solely on district-specific platforms. He established a presidential monitoring team to oversee the organization of electoral activities and ensure transparent decision-making. This initiative will provide him, as president, a comprehensive understanding of election preparations, enabling timely interventions when necessary.
The establishment of the Independent Electoral Bureau of Suriname is also planned, responsible for overseeing the elections and operating the Central Polling Station. Santokhi assured that all efforts will be made to conduct fair and orderly elections, with invites extended to international observers to validate the process. In the previous elections of 2020, no political party secured a majority in the National Assembly, prompting the formation of a four-party coalition under Santokhi’s leadership.
Suriname, a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), is approaching crucial general elections set for May 25, 2025. This upcoming electoral cycle represents a significant shift in the electoral framework of the country. President Santokhi’s remarks underscore the importance of transitioning to a national electoral system that promotes equal representation for all voters, as well as adherence to constitutional principles concerning elections. The new system is designed to address historical imbalances and enhance democratic governance in Suriname.
In summary, President Santokhi’s announcement regarding the scheduled elections in Suriname sets the stage for a pivotal transition in the electoral process. By adopting a national proportional electoral system, the government aims to facilitate fair representation for all political factions while promoting national unity. The establishment of monitoring and oversight mechanisms is anticipated to enhance the election’s transparency and credibility, striving for a democratic process that truly reflects the will of the citizens.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
