Security increased for left-wing leader Timmermans after Amsterdam incident
Frans Timmermans, leader of GroenLinks-PvdA, has received heightened police protection and additional unspecified security following an intimidation incident at an Amsterdam café, he told RTL on Thursday.
The terrace incident, when masked men verbally harassed Timmermans while he was being interviewed on camera, is not the first time he has faced intimidation. "This incident was visible to all of the Netherlands because it occurred on camera, but it is not the first time I have faced such intimidation. Unfortunately, it apparently comes with the job," he told RTL.
Timmermans acknowledged the personal toll the threats take on his family. "I think everyone can understand that this is particularly difficult for your loved ones. I can say I do not let myself be intimidated, but they also have to deal with it."
Despite the incident, Timmermans said he is not worried about his campaign. "I know that I am well taken care of, as well as for my safety. We have people with the police in this country, but also with the NCTV, who pay very close attention. When they tell me, 'It’s okay, you can do this,' then I feel completely at ease."
He added that politicians today pay a high price for public service but emphasized his determination not to be cowed. "The answer is: we do not allow ourselves to be intimidated. If you let yourself be intimidated, they will think it still works. And that is the last thing we want, especially since I know it is just a very small group."
