PARAMARIBO, SURINAME – Suriname’s incoming coalition government has nearly finalized its Cabinet ahead of the July 16 inauguration, with the nomination of Patrick Brunings as Minister of Oil, Gas and the Environment, marking a key step in the formation process.
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Brunings, a petroleum engineer with more than 25 years of experience at Staatsolie, was nominated by the National Party of Suriname (NPS). He most recently served as Exploration & Subsurface Manager in the company’s offshore directorate. His appointment follows the withdrawal of a previous candidate who declined the position for personal reasons.
The oil and gas portfolio is a newly established ministry, reflecting the growing importance of the energy sector in Suriname’s economy. NPS, which will oversee the ministry, has emphasized the need for professional leadership in this area.
In addition to Brunings, NPS has nominated Diana Pokie as Minister of Social Affairs and Housing, and Dirk Currie as Minister of Education, Science and Culture.
The National Democratic Party (NDP) has confirmed six nominees, including Ismanto Adna (Finance), André Misikaba (Public Health) and Melvin Bouva (Foreign Affairs). Coalition partners ABOP, BEP, and A20 have also completed their nominations. ABOP will manage four ministries, including Natural Resources and Justice and Police. BEP and A20 will take on portfolios such as Tourism and Economic Affairs. Pertjajah Luhur will oversee Land and Forest Management and Defense.
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All nominees are now subject to background screening. The full cabinet is expected to be sworn in after the July 16 presidential inauguration.
