Three outgoing councillors receive royal honours for years of public service
Three dedicated local councillors in the Netherlands have been awarded royal honours for their long-standing service to their community. The recognition highlights their contributions to local governance, impacting residents through policy and representation over the years.
| Name | Role | Service Period (Current Municipality) | Honour Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|
| André Groot | Councillor | 2013–2014, 2018–March 2026 | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Marcel Sanders | Councillor | 2013–March 2026 | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Marga Mulder-Keij | Councillor | 2013–March 2026 | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
Local municipalities in the Netherlands play a key role in representing citizens' interests, shaping local policies, and overseeing community development. Royal honours are awarded by the Dutch monarchy to individuals who have made significant contributions to society, often on the recommendation of local government bodies.
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Royal honours for outgoing councillors
On Tuesday evening, 31 March, Mayor Marjan van Kampen-Nouwen presented royal honours to three outgoing councillors.
André Groot
André Groot served as a councillor for the Municipality of Zijpe from 2002 to 2006. From 2013 to 2014 and from 2018 to March 2026, he served as a councillor for our municipality. In recognition of his dedication and commitment as a councillor, he has been awarded a royal honour. He has been appointed Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
Marcel Sanders
Marcel Sanders served as a councillor for our municipality from 1 January 2013 to 31 March 2026. In recognition of his dedication and commitment as a councillor, he has been awarded a royal honour. He has been appointed Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
Marga Mulder-Keij
Marga Mulder-Keij served as a councillor for our municipality from 1 January 2013 to 31 March 2026. In recognition of her dedication and commitment as a councillor, she has been awarded a royal honour. She has been appointed Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau.