Paramaribo News: According to local media reports, the National Assembly of Suriname elected Jennifer Simmons, the leader of the National Democratic Party, as the country's new president on the 6th. Simmons became the first female president in the history of this South American country. Simmons is 71 years old and previously served as the Speaker of the Suriname National Assembly. The Suriname Times described her election as a "breakthrough in women's politics" in the country. The President of Suriname is elected by a unicameral parliament and serves as both the Head of State and the Head of Government. In the National Assembly elections held in May, the National Democratic Party, founded by the late former President Bouterse, won 18 seats, while the Progressive Reform Party led by current President Chan-o-chi won 17 seats. The National Assembly is the highest legislative body in Suriname, with 51 seats. The National Democratic Party formed a coalition with a total of 34 seats in the new parliament, reaching a two-thirds majority. As the Progressive Reform Party did not nominate a presidential candidate, Simmons was elected as the sole candidate. According to media reports, Simmons is scheduled to be sworn in on the 16th of this month. The Surinamese Constitution stipulates that the President's term of office is 5 years and he/she can be re elected. (New Society)