Within the Nationale Democratische Partij (NDP) and among sections of society, dissatisfaction is growing over the pace at which the Simons/Rusland government is implementing its plans, according to NDP prominent Faizal Abdoelgafoer.
In an interview with LIM FM, Abdoelgafoer expressed concern about the progress of several government projects. According to him, it is important that the government not only formulates policy, but also ensures its actual implementation. He wonders whether the slow progress of certain projects may be due to insufficient capacity within the government apparatus.
In particular, the backlogs in infrastructure and housing construction deserve urgent attention, he said. The problems that residents of the interior face on a daily basis must also be addressed more vigorously.
Recognition of economic stability
Despite his criticism, Abdoelgafoer acknowledges that the government is making efforts to keep the economic situation under control. He cites the stability of the exchange rate and improvements for teachers as positive developments.
According to him, however, economic stability must not be the ultimate goal. The population must also genuinely notice that its living conditions are improving. For this, concrete investments and a better-functioning government apparatus are necessary, according to the NDP member.
NDP must listen to dissatisfied support base
Abdoelgafoer emphasises that developments in the country are also being viewed critically within the NDP. The party is holding discussions with its structures in various districts to gain insight into the concerns and expectations of its support base.
According to him, it is important that the party takes signals from society seriously. The NDP must maintain its connection with the population while at the same time contributing to solutions for the problems facing the country.
He states that the party has entered a new phase following the death of former chairman Desi Bouterse. According to him, the focus should not be on finding someone who can replace Bouterse as a person, but on building on the ideals and principles of the party.
Preparation for oil revenues must not lag behind
Abdoelgafoer also believes that the government must move quickly to strengthen government institutions ahead of the expected revenues from the offshore oil and gas industry.
According to him, Suriname must now invest in expertise, education and good governance to prevent the country from being insufficiently prepared for the new economic opportunities.
According to him, future revenues must be managed responsibly and ultimately benefit the development of the country and the improvement of the population’s standard of living.
NDP chairmanship not ruled out
During the interview, Abdoelgafoer also addressed reports that he could possibly succeed President Jennifer Simons as chairman of the NDP.
He does not rule out a future chairmanship, but stresses that such a decision must be taken by the party structures and must have sufficient support.
For now, he supports Simons as party chairwoman. According to Abdoelgafoer, his willingness to serve the NDP is separate from a specific position within the party.
