D66 party leader Jan Paternotte will not run for leadership of his party’s list during parliamentary elections later this year. This was expressed in a talk show Thursday night Renze.
As a father of two children, Paternotte no longer wants to spend time on his work. According to him, the role of party leadership requires far more time and energy than party leadership.
Paternotte was unwilling to say anything about party members who would agree. Among others, current ministers Rob Jetten (Climate and Energy) and Robbert Dijkgraaf (Education) were mentioned as possible candidates. D66 wants to organize a party leader election to replace him in the short term. Candidates can apply next week.
Paternotte’s decision came the same day that D66 leader and outgoing minister, Sigrid Kaag (Finance) announced that he was leaving politics. Kaag, who is under heavy security due to serious threats, says his job is too stressful for his family.
Paternotte also has to deal with threats, he added Renze. But according to him, that is not a reason not to be willing to appear. She pointed out that female politicians are faced with threats more often and called the threats against Kaag “deeply pathetic”.
D66 isn’t the only party that has to find a list leader for the upcoming election. Earlier, interim Prime Minister Mark Rutte (VVD) announced that he would be leaving politics. CDA leader Wopke Hoekstra is also no longer available for list leaders. He will remain politically active for now.
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