Pieter Omtzigt withdraws: consequences for NSC and the cabinet

In the podcast Elke Week, host Sam Verbeek talks to political editor Eric Vrijsen about Pieter Omtzigt’s resignation.

This week it was announced that Pieter Omtzigt, leader of the New Social Contract (NSC), is withdrawing from his position indefinitely due to health problems, including a burnout. For those who have been following Omtzigt for a while, this will not come as a surprise. A few years ago he had his first burnout, and since then he has had to constantly balance between his political ambitions and his health.

Omtzigt is known for his immense work ethic; even during train journeys he works undisturbed. He is passionate and very committed to his work, but this dedication also takes its toll. Since the establishment of NSC, the pressure on him has increased further. The party achieved unexpected success in the 2023 elections, and with the entry into the cabinet, the responsibility only increased. Omtzigt is not a man who slows down once he has achieved a goal. He continues to commit himself to his spearheads, such as administrative integrity and civil rights.

The heavy workload and responsibility that came with leading NSC, combined with his personal drive to be involved in everything, seem to have finally caught up with him. His resignation comes at a difficult time, as the cabinet has only just been formed and the fledgling NSC plays an important role in the coalition.

Omtzigt announced that Nicolien van Vroonhoven will temporarily replace him as party leader. Although Van Vroonhoven has experience, she lacks the national recognition and prestige of Omtzigt. This raises the question of how the dynamics within the cabinet will change. Other party leaders, especially those of the larger parties, will have to deal with a replacement who may not be able to exert the same influence. The coming weeks will show whether this temporary leadership can guarantee stability within NSC, or whether it will have a greater effect on the course of the party and the coalition.