CDA Westerkwartier Leader Steps Down Amidst Criminal Investigation
Jan Riemeijer, the recently appointed leader of the CDA (Christian Democratic Appeal) party in the Westerkwartier municipality of Groningen, Netherlands, has withdrawn from his position due to his involvement in a criminal investigation. The announcement comes shortly after his application for a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) was denied earlier this week.
Investigation Details Remain Unclear
Riemeijer, who works as an accountant and lecturer in applied sciences (HBO), stated he was unaware of the investigation until the VOG application was rejected. “Inhoudelijk kan ik daar niets over zeggen. De partij is wel van alles op de hoogte,” Riemeijer told RTV Noord, meaning he could not comment on the specifics of the investigation but that the party was informed. He further emphasized he could only refer to the party’s press release, citing the ongoing investigation as the reason for not receiving the VOG. RTV Noord reported the news on March 8, 2026.
Unexpected Development
The situation came as a surprise to Riemeijer, who had only recently grow politically active in the Westerkwartier. “Ik zag dit echt niet aankomen. Anders begin je ook niet aan zoiets. Ik ben hieraan begonnen omdat je iets wil betekenen voor de mensen,” he stated, expressing his disappointment. NOS Nieuws also covered the story, highlighting the unexpected nature of the withdrawal.
Party Response and Future Plans
The CDA party has decided not to appoint a new list leader. Instead, the responsibilities will be distributed among the candidates on the electoral list. Riemeijer has stated he will relinquish any seat he might win, despite remaining on the ballot as the electoral lists have already been finalized. He described himself as “aangeslagen maar strijdbaar” (devastated but combative) and emphasized that no formal charges have been filed against him at this time. De Krant Nieuws reported on the developments nine hours ago.
Jan Riemeijer’s profile on the CDA website describes him as someone who enjoys genuine conversations and a sense of humor.