Dutch populist MP Geert Wilders' right-wing Freedom Party (PVV) has given up trying to form a governing coalition in Almere, a new town located near Amsterdam.
The party won more seats than any other in local elections on 3 March, winning the opportunity to try and form a governing alliance with other political groups within the council.
In a press release, the PVV says most of the other parties have refused to give ground to its demands on what the party describes as essential issues. These include the need for 'city commandos', who would maintain law and order in the town in the light of what the PVV perceives as too few boys in blue on Almere's streets.
Other issues which have proved divisive in coalition talks are the PVV’s demands for reduced taxes for Almere residents and its fight against what the party sees as the increasing influence of Islam in Dutch society.
The PVV complains that it is being forced to stay in the opposition through the manoeuvring of the political elite.
© Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Raymond de Roon (PVV leader in Almere) and Geert Wilders
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