Around 400 people have attended the Sunday morning memorial mass in Rotterdam’s St Lawrence cathedral for the populist politician Pim Fortuyn, who was murdered exactly ten years ago today.

Several speakers reflected on the politician’s role and legacy. Among them was the late politician’s brother Simon Fortuyn. Former party member Ronald Sörensen recited a poem by Gerard Reve for Mr Fortuyn, who was a flamboyantly gay media figure.

Commemorations later on Sunday will include a symposium held at Rotterdam’s city hall, which will focus on Mr Fortuyn’s political views and their influence on politics today.

The ceremonies will end with the official renaming of a square after Mr Fortuyn. A bust of the politician was placed there in 2003.

(cl/tt)

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