Rudolf Elias, the former Managing Director of Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., has been appointed as the President-Commissioner of the state-owned company. In an interview with Starnieuws, Elias expressed his enthusiasm for contributing once again to Suriname’s future. He emphasized that without a solid plan, oil—and even more oil—could become a curse rather than a blessing. “We must collectively advocate for a well-thought-out strategy,” he stated. Elias highlighted the importance of a broad societal discussion and a robust roadmap to counteract the so-called ‘oil curse,’ citing examples from Venezuela, Nigeria, and Guyana. He warned that without proper planning, 80% of Suriname’s population could face increasing poverty rather than prosperity. Alongside Elias, Sergio Akiemboto (Chief of Staff at the President’s Office), Aroon Samjhawan, Ewald Poetisi, Rudie Chin Jen Sem, Chantal Doekhie, and Edgar Caffé have been appointed to the new Board of Commissioners of Staatsolie. Elias served as Managing Director from 2015 to 2020, during which Suriname made its first significant offshore oil discoveries. Under his leadership, the company charted a strategic course towards participation in offshore projects and the enhancement of local content in the oil industry. Since leaving Staatsolie, Elias has remained active as an entrepreneur, consultant, and speaker on sustainable development and energy policy. Over the years, he has been a strong advocate for transparency, good governance, and long-term planning in the energy sector. His return as President-Commissioner is seen within the industry as a step towards strengthening policy, oversight, and continuity in the strategic development of the company.