appointment was the result of a unanimous decision that was made at a meeting. “After the elections were held and most of the results were in the party officially presented  Jennifer Simons as the presidential candidate of the NDP,” said  Panka. The preliminary results of the elections suggest that the NDP has taken the lead. But the NDP has also expressed concern about the slow pace at which the votes are being counted.

 “It is taking too long,”  said Panka who added that a delegation from the NDP visited the main polling station in  Paramaribo to seek answers regarding the slow process.  “There is a lack of communication with the people and the political parties. That is cause for concern,” said  Panka. Despite the lead that the NDP has, the political landscape remains fragmented which makes future collaboration necessary.  Panka confirmed that the  NDP is already getting ready to hold talks with other parties. “The preparations are being made,” said Panka without mentioning any names. “I can't answer that question,” said Panka when he was asked if there is any party that the NDP prefers to work with. Voters deem a collaboration between the two biggest parties as the ideal scenario but Panka pointed out that “we have made it clear that a collaboration with the VHP is not on the table.” Panka could not guarantee that the party would not change its mind about a possible collaboration with the VHP. The official results of the elections are expected to be presented shortly. Meanwhile the NDP keeps insisting that the entire process should be transparent and fast. By presenting Simons as its presidential candidate the NDP has taken a clear step towards the presidency.