Valerie Van Peel elected as new chair of N-VA
Former MP Valerie Van Peel has been elected as the new chair of the N-VA. The 45-year-old succeeds Bart De Wever, who is stepping down after more than two decades at the helm to become prime minister. Van Peel was the only candidate in the race.
De Wever’s leadership began in October 2004, a year marked by the Dutroux trial, Xandee's Eurovision entry ‘1 Life’, the Indian Ocean tsunami and the re-election of George W. Bush. Facebook was just getting started. Now, after 20 years, the party enters a new chapter.
A return to politics
Van Peel, a former party spokesperson and ten-year member of the House of Representatives, had stepped away from politics after her long fight for asbestos victims ended in frustration.
"Still, something kept nagging at me," she said when announcing her candidacy. "While in some places in the world it is painfully clear how the spirit of the times can drive extremes, while cooperation is more necessary than ever, I felt again that I could not stand on the sidelines. I felt the strength and fighting spirit again, the will to make a difference in our society."
Her candidacy quickly gained the backing of party leadership. The lack of challengers suggests broad internal support, although it remains to be seen just how unanimous the final vote tally will be.
Van Peel has signalled continuity rather than a change of pace for the party.
#FlandersNewsService | Valerie Van Peel © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM
Related news
