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Dutch PM Announces Retirement
Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok announced Wednesday he will retire next year as head of the Netherlands' largest party, ending two terms as prime minister marked by economic growth and liberal legislation.
Kok, a Labor Party leader since 1986, said he made his decision to make room for younger talent. "With confidence I give way to a next generation: with own accents, its own style, a new agenda, but the same ideals," he said at a news conference after he informed the top leaders of the party.
He will remain as head of the Dutch government until a new cabinet has been formed after next May's national elections.
Kok, 62, led his party to victory in 1994, ousting the long- reigning Christian-led alliance and clearing the way for passage of social legislation to legalize brothels, gay marriages and euthanasia.
"I say it with the hand on my heart, I don't have a clue what I 'm going to do next. No career planning at all," he said.
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