Brussels Govt Talks Stall Over LEZ Dispute, Political Courage Needed to Break Deadlock

October 22, 2024
Brussels Govt Talks Stall Over LEZ Dispute, Political Courage Needed to Break Deadlock
  • Negotiations to form a new Brussels regional government have been frustratingly slow, with no significant advancements reported over four months since the regional elections held on June 9.

  • The stalemate in negotiations has persisted for over a month, primarily due to disagreements between the Flemish greens, Groen, and the MR party regarding the Low Emission Zone (LEZ).

  • This impasse began after an agreement was reached between the MR, PS, and Les Engagés to postpone the next phase of the LEZ by two years, which was later approved by the regional parliament.

  • Last week, parties including Vooruit, Open VLD, and N-VA urged Groen to re-enter negotiations, but Elke Van den Brandt indicated she was waiting for a signal from the MR.

  • Van den Brandt confirmed that discussions with MR's David Leisterh were ongoing, acknowledging significant differences that need to be addressed to make progress.

  • Internally, Groen faces resistance against forming an alliance with the N-VA, as there are concerns that such a move could lead to defections among their elected officials.

  • Van den Brandt is considering four potential coalition scenarios, which include partnerships with Groen, Vooruit, and Team Ahidar.

  • Without Groen's four seats, forming a Dutch-speaking majority becomes increasingly complex, with Team Fouad Ahidar needing to take the initiative but facing resistance from other parties.

  • Leisterh emphasized the need for political courage among Flemish parties, suggesting that sacrifices may be necessary to resolve the current governance stalemate.

  • In response to the negotiations, MR's president Georges-Louis Bouchez threatened to cancel the Good Move mobility plan, which is central to Groen's agenda.

  • Despite the ongoing discussions, Van den Brandt reiterated Groen's commitment to the principles of the Good Move plan, emphasizing the need for calmer neighborhoods and improved public transportation, although she may consider changing its name.

  • Leisterh criticized the ongoing discussions about scenarios involving Ahidar, urging for a serious government formation process due to the pressing issues facing Brussels.

Summary based on 2 sources


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