Decision made: Omtzigt starts new party | BNR rightwing Radio |

(Former CDA) Independent Member of Parliament Pieter Omtzigt has made the long-awaited decision and announced that he will participate in the parliamentary elections on 22 November with a new political party. Under the name New Social Contract, Omtzigt is on the electoral list in November.

And that is a game changer, thinks political reporter Leendert Beekman. 'At least that's how it is experienced in political The Hague,' he says. 'We eagerly awaited the clarity around Omtzigt.'

"This is a game changer"

The reason it is a game changer is because Omtzigt 'has the gift' to conjure up voices from everywhere, Beekman expects. 'From the SP to the VVD, he appeals to all voters', says Beekman. 'All parties will therefore have to take Omtzigt and his new party into account.'

Brand awareness

Omtzigt's name recognition also plays a significant role. Beekman compares it to the brand awareness of the new CDA leader, Henri Bontenbal. 'That's important, because if people have to vote for you, they have to know who you are', Beekman continues. 'And if you start with a great name recognition, you really have an advantage over someone like Bontenbal.'

Governance culture

Although the party program is not yet completely finished, according to Beekman there are already two important points that Omtzigt - in the event of a possible election win - will get to work. 'The administrative culture, about which we have heard a lot from him, must change in The Hague', concludes Beekman. 'That then concerns the way in which the government communicates with politicians and citizens. Omtzigt may even want to adjust the electoral system.'

The second point is the social security of the Netherlands and its inhabitants.

Another subject that Omtzigt is known for, says Beekman. 'Think of the benefits scandal, of course,' he concludes. 'But he draws it wider; Omtzigt believes that there should be social security for everyone. In addition, he says that it is not appropriate that 400,000 are dependent on the food bank. Those are the points that stand out, and what Omtzigt wants to do further, we will have to read in the election program when it is available.'