Ahmed Aboutaleb, former mayor of Rotterdam, is set to begin work as an exploratory negotiator in The Hague. His task is to assess whether a governing coalition can be formed following last week’s municipal elections.
Hart voor Den Haag, led by former alderperson Richard de Mos, asked Aboutaleb to take on the role. The party described the appointment as well considered. “He is authoritative, has extensive administrative experience, and is known for his ability to unite,” the party said. It also noted that, during his time as mayor, Aboutaleb worked closely with the local party Leefbaar Rotterdam.
Hart voor Den Haag remained the largest party in the city council, winning 16 of the 45 seats. Together with D66, which secured eight seats, the party could form a majority coalition. De Mos could also seek cooperation with GroenLinks-PvdA, Aboutaleb’s own party, which won seven council seats.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
