Government deadlock in Brussels: Flemish minister calls for political responsibility
The Flemish minister for Brussels Affairs, Cieltje Van Achter, has called on Brussels politicians to take responsibility for the future of the capital. Her appeal comes on the occasion of the Iris Festival, which is held every year around 8 May to celebrate the Brussels-Capital Region.
"There is little to celebrate today," said Van Achter, of Flemish conservatives N-VA. "Brussels is in desperate need of far-reaching reforms, but once again the PS seems content to ignore this urgent message."
She stressed that now was the time for action. "If no majority can be found for a real reform coalition, then the only option is to start with substantive proposals and work with those who are willing to move forward," she said. "This is no longer about self-righteousness, it is about securing the future of our capital. That is the least Brussels deserves.
The call is echoed by CD&V's Benjamin Dalle, who in an open letter urged liberals MR and socialists PS to "rise above their own shadows" and commit to forming a "successful reform government" without further delay. Dalle, the former Flemish minister for Brussels Affairs, noted that the standoff between the two main parties had reached unprecedented levels in recent weeks.
"The current stalemate is deeply worrying"
Almost a year after the regional elections, Brussels is still without a functioning government. "The current stalemate is deeply worrying. After months of vetoes and red lines, MR and PS now seem completely paralysed by mutual obstruction," said Dalle.
He stressed that both parties were essential players in creating the reformist coalition that Brussels needs.
Glimmer of hope
Dalle notes a glimmer of hope: both parties have recently taken constructive steps. The MR's David Leisterh has proposed presenting a political declaration with a substantive programme by June, while the PS's Ahmed Laaouej, chair of the finance committee, has pledged to present structural budget proposals instead of relying on provisional monthly spending agreements.
"The real challenge," Dalle said, "is to bring these initiatives together in a coherent political vision where fiscal discipline and political direction go hand in hand. The goal must be crystal clear: a robust coalition capable of delivering deep and lasting reform to Brussels."
© BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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