Elections 2024: Proxy votes seized in election fraud probe, Veurne also under investigation

Authorities are investigating potential election fraud in both Ninove and Veurne, focusing on concerns surrounding the misuse of proxy votes during Sunday’s municipal elections.

All proxy votes from the municipal elections in Ninove have been seized as part of an investigation into possible election fraud, the East Flanders public prosecutor confirmed. Initial reports spoke of hundreds of proxy votes, but the exact number remains unclear.

The investigation started after concerns were raised by a justice of the peace about the use of proxies and potentially forged medical certificates. While the prosecutor has not identified which party may be implicated, Forza Ninove leader Guy D’haeseleer denied that his party solicited proxies, saying they were collected only from voters who contacted them voluntarily.

In Ninove, 22,357 votes were cast, reflecting a 73.5 per cent turnout among 30,401 registered voters. All major parties have acknowledged using proxies, but how many were utilised remains unclear.

Separately, the West Flanders prosecutor’s office is investigating allegations against outgoing Veurne mayor Peter Roose of Veurne Plus for soliciting proxy votes. Roose insists he acted legally, denying the claims. Both investigations are ongoing. 

^{​#FlandersNewsService | A ballot box at a polling station in Ninove © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}