The new Fokus party announced its candidates for European elections in June, including former DP politician Monica Semedo.

Frank Engel was tasked with drafting a list of potential candidates, which were finalised on Friday evening. One standout decision: Monica Semedo is set to represent the party.

According to the party, Fokus reviewed Semedo's political and personal record after five years of work in the European Parliament. Elementally, she came in fourth during the last election, collecting no less than 50,890 votes for the DP.

In their press release, the party explained that Semedo represents a social and liberal line which corresponds to the Fokus programme at both a national and European level.

In conversation with RTL, Semedo expressed that she was 'not afraid' of submitting herself to the elections after spending five years defending the European minimum wage and paid internships. She also added her excitement at the prospect of continuing her work through Fokus.

Semedo's first term in office was tainted by accusations of harassment by her staff members. She has also received several sanctions from the European Parliament itself.

The full list of candidates for EU elections will be presented throughout the coming weeks, with the top candidate being unveiled on 23 March at the party's congress. The Fokus party programme will also be presented at this time.