paroolAug 28, 2026, 12:00

Entire Amsterdam city council speaks out against Groep Markuszower's questions about SP member Angelo Delsen: 'Unacceptable'

The Amsterdam city council has condemned Groep Markuszower for questioning the professional status of SP member Angelo Delsen due to his political statements. Council members described this move and similar legal actions against politicians as unacceptable, warning that such efforts to silence opponents threaten the democratic process.

The entire Amsterdam city council has formally denounced inquiries made by Groep Markuszower regarding Socialist Party council member Angelo Delsen. The inquiries asked Justice Minister David van Weel to investigate whether Delsen's public stance against the far-right is compatible with his professional role in the police force. The council labeled these actions unacceptable, arguing that such tactics represent a broader, concerning trend of using external pressure to silence political opposition.

This incident follows a recent court case involving Volt representative Juliet Broersen, who was sued for her statements during a political debate. While the court upheld her right to freedom of expression, the council remains concerned about the growing intimidation and aggression faced by local politicians. In a joint statement, the council members warned that such behavior undermines the democratic rule of law and erodes public trust. They emphasized that while sharp political debate is vital to democracy, the use of legal threats and employment-related pressure to stifle discourse has no place in a free society.

Politics

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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