On Tuesday, Dick Schoof, a candidate to lead the future government of the Netherlands, expressed his commitment to be a prime minister for all Dutch people. He clarified that he was chosen by the leaders of four parties with a parliamentary majority and will govern in his own way.
At his first press conference as a candidate, Schoof faced questions about the possible influence of nationalist Geert Wilders on his government’s decisions. He assured that he will be the only prime minister and emphasized his ability to do things right. Schoof considered it unexpected but not illogical to take this step, wanting to be a prime minister for all Dutch people and not feeling controlled by Geert Wilders.
Schoof declined to comment on specific policy measures around immigration and Euroscepticism but stated that the rule of law has guided his career and will influence his governance. He considered Mark Rutte an inspiration but clarified that he will govern in his own way. The process of forming a new cabinet involves selecting ministers and secretaries of State through interviews and investigations, with a deadline set to complete this phase on June 26th. The parties have reached a government pact that outlines general guidelines for the future Executive, but specific measures are yet to be defined. The new cabinet and government program are expected to be in place after the European summer holidays, which end in September.
