– Former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt passes away at 93
– Dries van Agt, ex-Prime Minister of the Netherlands, dies at 93.
Dries van Agt, Former Dutch Prime Minister, Passes Away at 93
Former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt, who served as the country’s leader from 1977 to 1982, has passed away at the age of 93. Van Agt celebrated his 93rd birthday just last week on February 2.
A Life Dedicated to Politics and Public Service
Born on February 2, 1931, in Geldrop, Netherlands, Dries van Agt had a long and illustrious career in politics. He first entered the political arena in the late 1960s when he was asked by senator Piet Steenkamp to help write the election program for the Catholic People’s Party (KVP). Van Agt’s involvement with the KVP eventually led him to become Prime Minister of the Netherlands.
Prior to his role as Prime Minister, Van Agt served as Minister of Justice in three previous Cabinets. During his time in office, he played a significant role in shaping Dutch policy, including the decision to tolerate personal cannabis use. In 2018, at the age of 86, Van Agt made headlines when he smoked cannabis for the first time and called for its legalization in the Netherlands.
A Stand for Human Rights
Van Agt was known for his dedication to human rights, particularly for the Palestinian people. In 2021, he made the decision to cancel his membership with the Christian Democrats due to their stance on Palestine. He accused the party of ignoring the suffering inflicted on the Palestinian people and became a vocal advocate for their cause.
The Palestinian ambassador to the Netherlands, Rawan Sulaiman, expressed gratitude for Van Agt’s principled stance and dedication to their cause. She praised his voice of truth, courage, and integrity, which continues to inspire and give strength to the Palestinian people.
Controversial Decisions and Legacy
During his tenure as Minister of Justice, Van Agt faced a challenging situation when Moluccan activists hijacked a passenger train in 1977. After several weeks of hostage negotiations, Van Agt made the difficult decision to order the end of the hijacking by force. Tragically, six hijackers and two passengers lost their lives in the operation.
Decades later, Van Agt expressed regret over the decision and called on King Willem-Alexander to issue a formal apology for the Netherlands’ treatment of the Moluccan people during the Indonesian National Revolution. He emphasized the lack of sympathy from the Royal House towards the Moluccan community, which deeply affected them.
A Lasting Legacy
With his passing, Dries van Agt becomes the oldest former Dutch Prime Minister since Piet de Jong, who died in 2016 at the age of 101. Van Agt’s contributions to Dutch politics and his dedication to human rights will be remembered and celebrated.
As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader, let us reflect on the impact Dries van Agt had on the Netherlands and the world. His principled stance, commitment to justice, and passion for human rights will continue to inspire generations to come.
Final Words
Dries van Agt will be remembered as a visionary leader who fought for justice and equality. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his remarkable life. May he rest in peace.
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1. Former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt dies at age
2. Former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt passes away at age.
