Maya Parbhoe, a presidential candidate in Suriname, has put forward a transformative yet controversial vision for the nation, focusing on economic reform and governance overhaul. Central to her proposal is replacing the country’s central bank with a decentralized system built around Bitcoin.
This reflects her belief that Suriname’s current financial model—reliant on the Surinamese dollar and international institutions like the IMF—has exacerbated economic instability, high inflation (reaching almost 60% recently), and corruption.
She views Bitcoin as a solution to these issues, offering economic stability, safeguarding citizens’ wealth, and diminishing the influence of centralized financial systems.
Inspired by El Salvador’s adoption of Bitcoin, Parbhoe envisions a phased transition over two to three years. This would involve making Bitcoin the primary currency while allowing people the freedom to use other currencies.
She argues that this model would protect against inflation, enhance financial inclusion, and integrate Suriname into the global economy. However, critics point out the risks associated with Bitcoin, such as its price volatility and the complexities of regulating cryptocurrencies, which could challenge the country’s financial stability.
Parbhoe’s vision extends beyond economic reform to include a fundamental restructuring of Suriname’s governance. She proposes modernizing the constitution to embrace democratic principles, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring transparency.
Her plan involves reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies, digitizing public services, and introducing blockchain technology to enable citizens to monitor government finances and decisions in real-time. This would foster greater accountability, reduce corruption, and empower citizens by involving them more directly in governance.
To ensure these ambitious reforms are successful, Parbhoe advocates for a gradual approach to Bitcoin adoption. This includes educating the public to help them adapt to the new financial system.
While acknowledging the resistance from traditional financial institutions and risks tied to currency competition, she believes her plan will ultimately create a more transparent, stable, and citizen-centered society in Suriname. The Suriname general elections are set for 25 May 2025.
