Dutch Muslim leader praises King’s Christmas speech for promoting unity

Muhsin Köktaş, president of the Contact Body for Muslims and Government (CMO), said he expected King Willem-Alexander to call for unity and understanding in his Christmas speech, and he was not disappointed. Köktaş, who was abroad and unable to hear the speech live, shared his thoughts on the King's address with the ANP on Wednesday.

Köktaş recalled a meeting with the King earlier in December, where they discussed the aftermath of the November 7 violence in Amsterdam during a soccer match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv. The violence, which occurred during the night of November 7-8, led to significant unrest.

"The King spoke about the importance of an inclusive society," Köktaş said. "So, I did not expect anything other than a call for connection and understanding." Köktaş added that the Dutch Muslim community believes strongly in these values of unity and inclusivity.

In his Christmas address, King Willem-Alexander specifically reached out to Jewish and Muslim Dutch citizens, calling for mutual understanding and solidarity. The K9, a coalition of regional mosque organizations, echoed the King’s message, emphasizing their commitment to a society built on understanding, empathy, and mutual recognition of each other’s pain and aspirations.

The K9 responded positively to the King’s appeal for unity, particularly his condemnation of bitterness, hatred, and division. "His call to stand firm against everything that drives people apart resonates deeply with us," the K9 said in a statement.

The King’s emphasis on equality under the law and the prohibition of discrimination aligns with the core values upheld by the mosque organizations. "We strongly support his message that everyone is free to find comfort and inspiration in their faith and that all individuals are equal," the K9 representatives noted.

Additionally, the K9 viewed the King’s call for greater attention to each other and the importance of listening as a key step toward a more inclusive and harmonious society. The mosque organizations expressed hope that this message, which they believe contrasts with the government's stance, will continue to be heard and contribute to collective efforts for peace and unity in the Netherlands.