In a surprising turn in Dutch politics, Prime Minister Mark Rutte bid a distinctive farewell to his office staff, riding a bicycle as they cheered him on, a moment captured in a viral video on social media.
After a remarkable 14-year tenure, Rutte handed over leadership to Dick Schoof, the former intelligence chief, who assumed office in a ceremony overseen by King Willem-Alexander.
Schoof’s appointment marks a departure from traditional politics, as he takes leadership without party ties, in a move unrelated to recent electoral activities.
Meanwhile, Rutte transitions to the role of NATO secretary-general, a pivotal position in safeguarding member nations across Europe and North America.
This shift coincides with the inauguration of the Netherlands’ first far-right government, led by Geert Wilders’ party, following a groundbreaking election that reshaped the country’s political landscape.
Dick Schoof, in his address to parliament, pledged to prioritize the new government’s goal of reducing immigration, reflecting a significant moment of continuity and change in Dutch leadership and policy direction.
In last year’s elections, Geert Wilders’ anti-immigration party secured the most seats, prompting a 223-day effort to form a coalition government involving four parties. Opposition within the coalition prevented Wilders from assuming the prime minister’s role.
