The proposals of critical members of JA21 to make the party more democratic and professional were embraced by a large majority during the members’ meeting. Party leader Joost Eerdmans has not put his name under the letter with the proposals, but he does support it. He does warn that the party ‘shouldn’t fly too fast too fast’.
The letter writers insist that the plans are actually carried out and that it does not stop with fine words.
First petitioner and Member of Parliament Nicki Pouw-Verweij did not want to speak of an urgent letter or conflict and spoke of ‘constructive proposals’. Among other things, the signatories want all members to be able to apply for positions on the board. At present, this can only be done on the recommendation of the board itself. Moreover, they want an end to double functions and that there is a party council that will determine the political direction.
‘hard deadline’
Despite the board’s positive words about the proposals, Pouw-Verweij is not entirely confident that the plans will be implemented. “Last year, efforts did not lead to results,” she says. That is why she also wants a hard deadline to be agreed. She also thinks that the board envisages a party council that engages in ‘a simple exchange of ideas’, while she wants ‘real decision-making power’.
Member of Parliament Derk Jan Eppink also signed the letter and speaks of ‘catching up that we have to make because we may have new elections this year. Otherwise we will become a small club with broad aspirations that we cannot fulfill.’
Grumpy
While the members who spoke were unanimous in their support for the plans, some expressed chagrin over the tone and the fact that the letter had been made public. “It has really damaged us,” says Member of Parliament Daniël van den Berg of North Holland, referring to the coalition negotiations there.
Free unlimited access to Showbytes? Which can!
Log in or create an account and don’t miss a thing of the stars.