Geert Wilders’ second man leaves right wing party
Hero Brinkman, a member of the Dutch parliament representing the right wing PVV since 2006, has left the party, stating he can no longer tolerate ‘the lack of democracy’ within the PVV organisation which according to Brinkman revolves around one man, party leader Geert Wilders. Brinkman also objects against the manner in which the party singles out certain groups on society, such as Muslims and Eastern Europeans.
Brinkman stated he will not give up his seat in the house of representatives and will form a one-man party. His resignation means the governing alliance – the minority cabinet plus PVV – no longer have a majority in parliament. The opposition were quick to call for new elections: “The cabinet has lost its majority at a time when the country is in chaos” recently elected labour party leader Diederick Samsom said. However, according to Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Brinkman himself, his resignation will have no consequences for the functioning of the cabinet as Brinkman has expressed his loyalty to the governing parties: “I have faith in the current Rutte administration, I will not abandon the cabinet” said Brinkman.
