Twenterand councillors receive royal honours for decades of public service
Four dedicated councillors in Twenterand have been awarded the prestigious Order of Orange-Nassau for their long-standing contributions to local democracy. Their work has shaped policies and community life, impacting residents across the municipality.
| Name | Political Affiliation | Years of Service (Council) | Notable Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martha van Abbema | Christian Union (CU) | 2006-2007, 2010-2011, 2022- | Former alderwoman, Provincial Council |
| Carla Hilberink | Christian Union (CU) | 2011-present | Continuous service since 2011 |
| Frank Stolte | CDA, GBT, Municipal Interests | 2001-2003, 2003-2006, 2008-2010, 2018-present | Long-standing involvement |
| Rik Pape | Municipal Interests Twenterand | 2014-present (with break) | Current alderman |
The municipality of Twenterand is responsible for local governance, including council appointments and recognising contributions to public service. Royal honours like the Order of Orange-Nassau are awarded on behalf of the Dutch monarchy to individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
Read the full translated article below
Four councillors awarded royal honours
Four councillors were awarded the title Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau during Tuesday evening’s council meeting. Martha van Abbema and Carla Hilberink (both CU), Frank Stolte (CDA and GBT) and Rik Pape (GBT) received this royal distinction in recognition of their long-standing and valuable contributions to local democracy in Twenterand. Mayor Gerrit Jan Gorter praised the decorated councillors and presented them with the accompanying insignia.
Martha van Abbema
Former alderwoman Martha van Abbema has been active in Twenterand politics for multiple terms. She served as a councillor from 2006 to 2007, from 2010 to 2011 and again since 2022. She was also a member of the Provincial Council of Overijssel from 2011 to 2016. Her many years of service have made a significant contribution to local and provincial decision-making.
Carla Hilberink
Carla Hilberink has been a continuous councillor for the Christian Union since 2011. Her long service has given her a recognisable and stable role within the Twenterand municipal council. Her broad commitment and involvement in social issues form an important part of her council work.
Frank Stolte
Frank Stolte, a resident of Hammar, has served on the council in various periods and across multiple factions since 2001. His council memberships spanned from 2001 to 2003 (Stolte faction), 2003 to 2006 (CDA), 2008 to 2010 (CDA) and since 2018 for Municipal Interests Twenterand. His long-standing involvement underscores his strong dedication to local politics.
Rik Pape
Rik Pape is currently an alderman and became a councillor for Municipal Interests Twenterand in 2014. His commitment to the local community and his determination have characterised his council term. Pape temporarily stepped down from his position in February 2026 and will rejoin the council on 1 April until a new coalition is formed.