Geert Wilders acknowledges that he is unable to become P.M!

Progress is made in the formation of the Dutch government as the far-right Geert Wilders acknowledges that he is unable to become Prime Minister.

Progress is made in the formation of the Dutch government

The Dutch coalition negotiations are set to progress from initial talks to more focused discussions with the goal of establishing a predominantly technocratic government, following the decision by far-right leader Geert Wilders to acknowledge that he will not become prime minister.

Four months following the rise of Wilders' anti-Islam Freedom party (PVV) as the leading party in parliament, Kim Putters, the ex-socialist senator in charge of the negotiations, announced that discussions would persist with a government composed of experienced politicians and external specialists.

Consensus to seek an "extra-parliamentary" administration!

In a highly anticipated document published on Thursday, Putters announced that the four factions, including PVV, the liberal-conservative VVD, the agrarian BBB, and the center-right newcomer NSC, had reached a consensus to seek an "extra-parliamentary" administration.

Putters stated that their objective is to achieve a well-rounded and diverse group of ministers, comprising individuals both from within and outside the realm of politics. After careful deliberation, it is deemed prudent to aim for an equal distribution, such as 50% of individuals with political affiliations and 50% from non-political backgrounds.

The mediator stated that he had determined that it would be unfeasible to establish a coalition led by the PVV party, which would hold a majority in parliament, or a minority government functioning with parliamentary backing, due to the disparities among the four parties.

No support from his potential coalition partners!

Wilders reluctantly admitted on Wednesday that he did not possess the necessary support from his potential coalition partners to become the next prime minister. On Thursday, he stated that only the populist BBB leader, Caroline van der Plas, had wholeheartedly supported his aspirations.

Despite considering his forced withdrawal unjust and constitutionally wrong, he prioritized the formation of a rightwing cabinet over his personal grievances. "Ultimately, regardless of the pain and perceived unfairness, I opted not to prioritize my own position."

Media reports indicated that NSC, in particular, had requested a technocratic cabinet as a condition for supporting a PVV-led majority government. This would involve all four coalition leaders remaining as MPs in parliament instead of taking on ministerial roles.

Putters’ report proposed that the typically comprehensive coalition agreement, which serves as a relatively obligatory framework for the government, ought to be condensed and less precise. This is due to the fact that Members of Parliament would possess a considerably amplified influence over individual policies.

Structure of the Dutch government since 1918

Netherlands has not seen such a government structure since 1918, however, this model is common in other European nations such as Italy. The specific implementation of this system in the Netherlands remains uncertain, although it is probable that Wilders would suggest the appointment of a new prime minister.

In the November election, the PVV secured 37 seats in the parliament by advocating a populist and anti-immigration agenda. Although this result exceeded expectations, it fell significantly short of a majority in the 150-seat parliament. The four potential coalition partners collectively hold 88 seats in the parliament.

Wilders stated on Thursday that numerous individuals who cast their votes for the PVV with the expectation of him becoming prime minister if the party emerged as the largest were upset, "and I share their anger". However, he mentioned that a right-wing cabinet could "accomplish a great deal for the Netherlands".

Political analysts suggested that Wilders' choice may work in his favor. According to NOS's political editor, Xander van der Wulp, as the party leader in parliament, Wilders will have the opportunity to maintain a more independent and critical position. He will not be required to act on behalf of the four coalition partners.

NSC's leader, Pieter Omtzigt, leaving the discussions!

The upcoming week will witness the Parliament engaging in discussions regarding Putters' report, prior to making a decision on the subsequent course of action. The ongoing negotiations between the four parties have been characterized by tension, as evidenced by NSC's leader, Pieter Omtzigt, leaving the discussions in February due to irreconcilable differences with Wilders.

Wilders, a far-right figure known for his conviction for insulting Dutch Moroccans collectively, was forced to abandon manifesto promises that were deemed unconstitutional. These promises included proposals to ban mosques, the Qur’an, and Islamic headscarves, as well as plans for a referendum on leaving the EU. Despite this setback, Wilders maintained on Wednesday that he aspires to become the country's prime minister in the future.