Opposition (21) The National Assembly (Dutch: De Nationale Assemblée, commonly abbreviated "DNA") is the Parliament, representing the legislative branch of government in Suriname.

The assembly has been situated in the former park house at the Independence Square in Paramaribo, after a fire destroyed the old building of representation on 1 August 1996.

The 51 members of parliament are elected every five years by open list proportional representation on the basis of the country's component districts.

In that year, democracy was reestablished after the coup and a new constitution was adopted, organizing the Assembly, so new elections could be held on 25 November 1987.

On 10 October 1996, Marijke Djwalapersad (BVD) was elected as Chair, becoming the first woman in Suriname's history to assume this office.

[5] After the elections of 2005, Paul Somohardjo of Pertjajah Luhur (a party that was part of the New Front combination) wanted to become Vice President of Suriname.

[9] Within the coalition was decided to make Ramdien Sardjoe vice president[10] and Somohardjo Chairman of the National Assembly.