CDA leader Henri Bontenbal says D66, CDA, VVD, and JA21 likely to form government

Henri Bontenbal, leader of the CDA, has stated that a coalition including D66, CDA, VVD, and JA21 is currently the most realistic option. This followed discussions with D66, VVD, and the new informateur Rianne Letschert, who is tasked with guiding coalition talks. Bontenbal stressed that the negotiations are ongoing but expects that JA21 will be prioritized over a potential GroenLinks-PvdA alliance.

Bontenbal expressed confidence that an agreement supported by three or possibly four parties could be finalized by the end of January, with enough support in Parliament.

The identity of a potential fourth party is still uncertain. “I have clearly heard the VVD say they do not want some parties at the table, so I am approaching this with realism. No consensus exists yet, as these discussions have yet to take place.” Bontenbal is referring to the fact that the VVD has stated that it will now enter a coalition with GroenLinks-PvdA.

“That could still change. We have to work on maintaining or improving our relationship with GroenLinks-PvdA, which I also feel personally responsible for,” he said. The Christian Democrat added that a minority Cabinet remains a possibility. “With a minority government and strong agreements in place, it can function effectively.”

After the talks, VVD leader Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius stated that the relationship with D66 and CDA is already strong, “and it gets stronger by the minute as we collaborate more closely.” She reaffirmed her preference for a majority government but expressed confidence that “regardless of the type of Cabinet, as long as the plans are sound, there will always be constructive parties to cooperate with.”

The former informateur, Sybrand Buma, wrote in his final report earlier this week that D66, CDA, and VVD will have to develop an agreement that can then be joined by a fourth party. The four parties have until January 30 to complete this agreement.

Bontenbal also noted that JA21 leader Joost Eerdmans has shown a more constructive approach in recent days compared with GroenLinks-PvdA leader Jesse Klaver. Friday afternoon, the leaders of GroenLinks-PvdA and JA21 are scheduled to meet Letschert for a first introduction.

JA21 is a right-wing party formed following a split from forum Voor Democratie, noted for its conservative stance on migration and European Union issues.