Dutch anti-Muslim leader Geert Wilders won’t be PM despite poll win, here is why

Dutch populist figure, Geert Wilders, who is the leader of the Freedom Party (PVV) has decided to leave a race for the prime ministership, although his party has had a significant victory in the 2023 elections, BBC reproted. 

In a statement issued on X, Wilders said: “I can only become Prime Minister if ALL parties in the coalition support it. That was not the case.”

He added: “I would like a right-wing cabinet. Less asylum and immigration. Dutch on 1. The love for my country and voter is great and more important than my own position. I love NL.”

Although the PVV emerged as the single largest party in the Dutch election, it had to form a coalition with other parties. Dialogue with VVD (right & centre), NSC (New Social Contract), and the BBB (BBB farmers’ parties) have seemingly come to a deadlock.

According to Wilders, a right-wing cabinet that would solve problems with immigration and asylum is his priority rather than his personal ambitions. He declared that he is serving his country, not himself. 

Despite his attempts, the discussions with the other parties did not bring about a consensus and a parliamentary debate on the subject is expected to be held on Wednesday.

In another tweet Wilders said that: “And don’t forget: I will still become Prime Minister of the Netherlands. With support from even more Dutch people. If not tomorrow then the day after tomorrow. Because the voices of millions of Dutch people will be heard!”

The Dutch politician’s decision at the age of 60 is not only confined to Dutch politics, but it raises echoes across the European Union, due to the Netherlands’ position as a founding member of the EU. The decision of the parliamentary debate is going to be a crucial factor in determining the future prime minister and is yet to be known.