Sergio Akiemboto Appointed Chief of Staff to Suriname President

Paramaribo, Suriname — July 2025 — President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons has appointed Sergio Akiemboto as her new Chief of Staff, marking a strategic move aimed at strengthening the presidential office with experienced and trusted leadership.

Akiemboto is a seasoned politician, former Minister of Natural Resources, and a prominent figure in Suriname’s political and corporate landscape.

A New Era of Governance Under SimonsPresident Simons, who recently assumed office, has committed to a governance model rooted in constitutional clarity and ministerial accountability.

In this context, the Office of the President will function strictly as an advisory and coordinating body, not an executive powerhouse.

The appointment of Akiemboto reflects that vision.

“The Cabinet of the President is not an executive arm, but a high-level support office,” Simons said, highlighting the need for disciplined governance and institutional respect.

Who is Sergio Akiemboto?

Sergio Akiemboto is widely respected for his dual expertise in government and business. His impressive resume includes:

Minister of Natural Resources (2019–2020), where he oversaw critical reforms in Suriname’s mining and energy sectors.

CEO of Grassalco, a state mining company, where he led corporate transformation and resource development initiatives.

Chairman of the Presidential Transition Commission, coordinating Simons’s assumption of office in July 2025.

First Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Party (NDP), currently led by President Simons.

Akiemboto holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Anton de Kom University and an MBA in Corporate Strategy and Finance.

His academic background complements his practical leadership in both public and private sectors.

Chief of Staff: Role and Responsibilities

As Chief of Staff, Sergio Akiemboto will:

Coordinate daily operations of the presidential office.

Serve as the liaison between the President and cabinet ministries.

Ensure all presidential advisers operate strictly within their consultative roles.

Support the Ministry of General Affairs, which manages logistics, personnel, and budgeting for the presidency.

Help reinforce Suriname’s commitment to transparent, constitutional governance.

The position is designed to uphold a professional and non-political structure, allowing ministers and institutions to function independently while maintaining streamlined communication with the presidency.

What This Means for Suriname

Akiemboto’s appointment sends a clear message: President Simons is serious about rebuilding trust, reinforcing institutional frameworks, and eliminating executive overreach.

With Akiemboto’s blend of political insight and administrative experience, the government is poised for greater efficiency and integrity.

His prior work in the natural resources sector, especially during his time as Minister, is expected to influence policy discussions around Suriname’s energy independence, mining regulations, and environmental protection.

Akiemboto Brings Stability and Vision to the Presidential Office.

The appointment of Sergio Akiemboto as Chief of Staff to President Jennifer Simons is not only symbolic but also deeply strategic.

His track record as Minister of Natural Resources, corporate executive, and party leader positions him as a unifying figure capable of guiding the President’s office through a time of renewal and reform.

As Suriname navigates its future under Simons’s leadership, all eyes will be on how Akiemboto shapes the office, supports governance priorities, and drives institutional excellence.