This far and no further with PVV – Joop

It is surprising how most of the media and parties view these coalition negotiations as the most normal thing in the world. While our democracy and the rule of law are at stake.

Given his views, we should not be surprised that the Freedom Party has little in mind that is good for our democracy and the rule of law. Postponing some of these views is nothing more than a tactical political trick. Wilders has looked closely at how Orban in Hungary and PiS in Poland succeeded in smashing the rule of law and democracy in their country. Not through immediate implementation of far-reaching proposals. But by eroding democracy and the rule of law from within.

As a member of the Cabinet, the Freedom Party has the power of appointment. Appointments have previously been rejected through a smear campaign by the Freedom Party, often with the support of De Telegraaf, or the person in question kept the honor for themselves. The Freedom Party can have members appointed from the Cabinet to various positions for the Freedom Party. The so-called cross-institutional march. For example, members of the Judicial Council are appointed by the Minister. The Council selects the members of the Courts' Board of Directors, who in turn either grant opportunities to the judges or not. For example, in Poland and Hungary, democracy and the rule of law have been eroded step by step. It is no coincidence that Trump, as President of the United States, focuses primarily on appointing judges. Roe v. Wade fell. The selection and appointment of judges lasts for years due to life appointment. This is the judgment on your grave.

It is surprising that the media and political parties completely ignore this well-known strategy. On talk shows, there is quiet talk about potential coalitions, and it is always emphasized that the voter really wants this government. Because just look at the results and the polls. Now the voter has the final say in the voting booth, but the voter is not necessarily right. Former Minister Donner once said: Democracy can abolish itself democratically. But is this what the voter wants? i doubt it. With the Freedom Party in government office, this is a possibility.

Parties must provide clarity to voters here. Right-wing parties in particular, especially the VVD, have allowed themselves to be drawn into the trap of a Party for Freedom. The Party for Freedom claims to speak on behalf of the people. If you do not agree with the Party for Freedom, you are against the people. Supported by the media that wants to hear from the “concerned citizen” because of Fortuyn’s convulsion. Admittedly, this would fuel polarization. The extreme right-wing forces believe that their strategy is successful and are pushing with greater force. It creates a vicious circle that only ends in one way.

And now we've reached the point where it really matters. The fear of a break between the various right-wing parties is not unfounded. Especially with VVD. This is often why boards and party factions give wide latitude to answer this question. But the moment the Freedom Party becomes in government, this division will arise automatically.

Not taking action now about our democracy and the rule of law in order to try to keep your party together is not only cowardly, it also causes great harm to our rule of law and democracy. It was nice with Fortuyn's media spasm. Parties like the FP must make a choice and move beyond their shadow, so that the FP can be referred back to the opposition. The parties will also have to work to solve the problematic issues instead of constantly postponing matters out of fear for the voter. It has been a good thing for right-wing extremism in the Netherlands that we love our democracy and the rule of law. Even here and no further.