The Albany Gazette - Final push to form Dutch govt, Wilders keeps PM pick secret

Since the November 22 vote, Wilders and his far-right Freedom Party have been embroiled in fractious talks with three other parties to forge a coalition government to lead Europe's fifth largest economy.

Talks have broken down several times -- not helped by social media sniping from all sides -- but Wednesday is the latest deadline imposed by the two men overseeing the negotiations.

The parties are still wrestling over public finances but appeared confident as the deadline looms.

"We are making progress. There is plenty of chance" to come to a deal, said Pieter Omtzigt, leader of the centrist New Social Contract Party and a key player in the talks.

But a key question remains: who will be prime minister to replace Mark Rutte, who appears set to take over as NATO Secretary-General?

Wilders reluctantly ruled himself out in March, amid unease over the anti-Islam, anti-European politician representing the Netherlands.

"The love for my country and voters is bigger and more important than my own position," said Wilders at the time, adding that he would eventually fulfil his dream of becoming PM.

As election winner, the ball is in Wilders's court to propose a prime minister and he has said he has someone in mind but no clear name has leaked out.

"It's the best-kept secret in the Hague," said public broadcaster NOS.

Names circulating include Kim Putters, who managed to get talks back on track as "scout" or supervisor of the negotiations, apparently winning the top politicians' trust.

Mona Keijzer, a leading figure in the BBB farmers' party, is seen as another possible choice.

The parties are seen as likely to clinch a coalition deal before the Wednesday deadline -- possibly as early as late Tuesday -- but the PM decision may come later.

(F.Jackson--TAG)