Before Nilüfer Gündogan can return to Volt’s parliamentary group, she will have to relent when it comes to reproaching fellow party members. That is what Volt MP Marieke Koekkoek said, who herself has been at odds with Gündogan for some time.
“The only opening to continue is a moment of self-reflection and the declarations off the table.” Volt leader Laurens Dassen agrees with her.
libel
Volt initially expelled Gündogan, who grew up in Weert, from the group after thirteen reports of transgressive behaviour, but had to come back to this after summary proceedings. In the meantime, Gundogan had criticized the state of affairs in the media, contradicted the allegations against her and filed a complaint against Dassen, Volt and the reporters for defamation. Since then it has been unclear what exactly is going on within the party, except that peace has certainly not returned.
Courage
For the time being, Dassen states that it is being examined how the break in the fraction can be glued, but is otherwise silent. However, according to an insider, he would not want to continue with Gündogan as long as the declarations are still on the table. “If you want to create a safe working environment, how is that possible if there is a Member of Parliament walking around who has filed thirteen complaints against people who had the courage to step forward to speak about transgressive behaviour?”
expropriate
An attempt would be made at mediation, but it is unclear how this will take place. Insiders also report that the party is considering still challenging the judge’s decision. In the meantime, letters are being circulated among members calling on the board to put an end to the internal squabbles. The board has also been asked to expel Gündogan if it does not withdraw its declarations against the reporters.
guts
Koekkoek had been in conflict with Gündogan for some time, that “was known”, says the former. The story goes that Gündogan would think, among other things, that she should shower more often. “If she made that comment, she didn’t have the guts to say it to my face.” According to Koekkoek, it is “difficult to work with someone who treats people in a very unpleasant way”. According to her, Gundogan is guilty of intimidation.