博客

In a landmark outcome for Dutch politics, the Democrats 66 (D66) party, led by 38-year-old Rob Jetten, has emerged as the largest party in the Netherlands following Wednesday’s parliamentary elections. According to initial exit polls, D66 is projected to secure 27 seats, surpassing Geert Wilders’ Party for Freedom (PVV) with 25 seats and the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) with 23 seats. This result signals a decisive shift toward political stability and collaboration, marking a departure from years of fragmentation and populist influence. Jetten, who could become the youngest and first openly gay prime minister in Dutch history, addressed supporters in The Hague, stating, ‘Millions of Dutch citizens have turned a page today. We are saying goodbye to the politics of negativity and hatred and embracing hope, reason, and respect.’ The election outcome reflects a broader trend toward the political center, with radical-right parties like the PVV losing ground. Meanwhile, the VVD and the socially conservative New Social Contract (NSC) are positioned around the center, while the GreenLeft-Labour alliance underperformed with approximately 20 seats. Shortly after the exit polls were announced, Frans Timmermans, leader of the GreenLeft-Labour alliance, resigned, acknowledging the need for ‘new energy and leadership.’ With no party nearing the 76-seat majority required to govern, coalition negotiations are expected to be lengthy and complex. Analysts predict Jetten will aim to form a broad center coalition, potentially involving the VVD, NSC, and one or two smaller parties, while ruling out collaboration with the PVV. Key campaign issues included purchasing power, migration, housing, climate, and trust in government. D66’s victory is widely interpreted as a call for stability, professionalism, and cooperation. Updated exit polls and preliminary vote counts are anticipated later today.

Sidik Moertabat, a prominent member of the VHP (Progressive Reform Party) leadership, has reaffirmed his decision to resign from the party’s executive board. In a recent interview with Starnieuws, Moertabat emphasized that his departure is final and that he will formally communicate his resignation to the party’s leadership. He has already drafted a letter to VHP Chairman Chan Santokhi, signaling his complete break from the party. This move comes despite claims by VHP spokesperson Dew Sharman, who denied Moertabat’s resignation in a radio interview, stating that he remains a member of the executive board. Moertabat, however, clarified that he did not authorize Sharman to speak on his behalf and stands by his decision. His resignation was initially announced in a group chat among VHP executives, which was later leaked, prompting media inquiries. Moertabat cited deep dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership, particularly the lack of communication and inclusivity in decision-making processes. He expressed frustration over being sidelined during key events, such as the preparation for the May parliamentary elections and the candidate selection process. Moertabat, who joined the VHP in 2012 after leaving the KTPI, served as a member of the National Assembly from 2020 to 2025. His departure underscores growing internal tensions within the VHP following its recent electoral defeat.

The Embassy of the Republic of Suriname in China recently welcomed a delegation of faculty members and students from the School of Government and Public Affairs and Communication at a prominent Chinese university. This marked a historic occasion, as it was the first time the university had visited a diplomatic mission in China. Ambassador Pick Fung Ho-Chong hosted the group in Beijing, facilitating an enriching exchange on culture, history, and diplomacy. During her presentation, the Ambassador provided an insightful overview of Suriname, highlighting its geographical location, multi-religious and multicultural society, and the historical presence of the Chinese community in Suriname since 1853. She also emphasized the diplomatic relations between Suriname and China, which have flourished since 1976 and will celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2026. The Ambassador underscored the importance of mutual understanding and cultural exchange, encouraging students to deepen their knowledge of Suriname and share it within their academic circles. Symbols such as the national flag and coat of arms were explained as representations of Surinamese identity and values, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation. Jin Yong, Secretary of the Party Committee of the School, expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reiterated the university’s commitment to nurturing globally-minded talents. He praised Suriname for facilitating this unique encounter. A poignant moment was the recitation of the poem ‘Long Live Youth’ by students, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two nations. The event concluded with an exchange of commemorative gifts and a call from the Ambassador for students to continue building bridges between Suriname and China.