PARAMARIBO — It is necessary to pray for Suriname and show charity. This is what President Jennifer Simons underlined on Friday, April 24, 2026, during a prayer conference in the Anthony Nesty Sports Hall. During this special day of prayer, the head of state pointed out in her speech the need for prayer for the country and people. “It is necessary to pray together in Suriname,” said the president. She thanked the various Christian groups and bishops for taking the initiative to dedicate the country to God.
The head of state, who was also prayed for by clerics Steve Meye and Humro Emanuel, underlined the many challenges in the country. “Because of course we realize that we are going through a difficult period and that difficult period is not primarily economic.” According to President Simons, both the government and the Surinamese people have an important task to humble themselves. “We are people who made mistakes in Suriname,” she acknowledged.
“We must pray, but we must work every day to achieve what we want for Suriname and ourselves”
The president considers it important that Surinamese people serve each other and the nation. “Then we will save the country,” she added. In this light, the head of state also underlined charity. “Love your neighbor as yourself and love God above all else. If we could do that, the world would be different.” However, the president realizes that this assignment is not easy. “And that is why we must pray to gain that strength, to make these words come true for ourselves and for all others.”
Finally, the head of state urged those present to continue working and praying. “We must pray, but we must work every day to achieve what we want for Suriname and ourselves,” said President Simons. Earlier this week, her cabinet had a meeting with religious organizations, during which the head of state emphasized that these groups play an important role in social recovery and moral support of society.
