Elections 2024: Key coalition talks are deciding Groen’s future in Ghent
After a week of post-election negotiations, Ghent’s political future hangs in the balance, and for green party Groen, this is a pivotal moment. As Voor Gent - the alliance between Open VLD, led by current mayor Mathias De Clercq and socialists Vooruit - seeks a coalition partner, Groen hopes to take up a role in the city’s leadership, solidifying its status as a stronghold for the party.
With Voor Gent winning the elections on 13 October, the ball is in their court. Vooruit strongly favours a coalition with Groen, aligning with their shared progressive vision for the city. This stance has been positioning Groen as a potential key partner in shaping the future of the city, one of the few places where the green party held its ground after a difficult election cycle.
For Groen, securing a place in Ghent’s coalition would not only ensure the continuation of its influence in the city but also provide a much-needed boost after the party’s mixed performance elsewhere. Joining the governing majority would reinforce their status as a credible player in Flemish politics.
Pragmatic choice
However, Groen faces competition. The Open VLD faction within Voor Gent is leaning towards right-wing N-VA as a coalition partner. In times of budget cuts and financial constraints, many liberals see the N-VA as a more pragmatic choice.
As negotiations continue, De Clercq has shared a draft coalition agreement with both Groen and the N-VA. Insiders have described the draft as “progressive, social and even leftist”, suggesting it would be a natural fit for Groen. However, pressure is mounting as some liberals are increasingly pushing for an N-VA partnership.
De Clercq’s meeting with Groen on Monday will be crucial, as he must finalise the coalition agreement by the end of the week. If no agreement is reached by Sunday, Voor Gent will lose its right to initiate a coalition, leaving room for other parties to shape the city’s leadership.
For Groen, this is a critical juncture. If they can secure a place in the coalition, Ghent could remain a stronghold for the party. That would be a vital victory at a time when their influence is waning elsewhere. If they are sidelined, it could signal a shift in the city’s political landscape, with Groen losing one of its last major footholds in Flanders.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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