Pieter Omtzigt’s popularity is still high among CDA members, says Heine, leader of the Maastricht CDA party. He admits he fears party members will follow him if he creates a new party ahead of elections. He is also asked by the members if the former party member doesn’t want to come back.
‘If we lose just five seats, it will be difficult to remain a large popular party. ‘
Heine admits the challenge for the CDA is great ahead of November 22nd. “If we drop five seats, it will be difficult to remain a large popular party,” he says. “Especially if there is also a BBB and an Omtzigt party.”
The Maastricht party leader therefore supports a “socially conservative” CDA, as she describes it herself. ‘With a broader poverty agenda than in recent years. And with a renewed focus on care and education. Think of the shortage of care beds for the elderly. This is something we have focused too little on in recent years. We need to take clear positions when it comes to norms and values.’
Relieved after the toilet fell
She admits somewhat that she is relieved that the CDA’s coalition with VVD, D66 and ChristenUnie is over. “Sometimes it was hard to be honest with the truth,” she says. “And it’s nice to be able to speak freely now.”
According to Martine Wolzak, CDA observer for FD, the party really has to make precise choices if it wants to compete in the next elections. “Because now it is said too often that they want to appeal to the countryside and the city, young and old,” says Wolzak. ‘It remains difficult to distinguish itself as a middle party. Congresses are held on it and reports are written. Sometimes it all feels a bit forced.’