Ludivine Dedonder, Belgium's Minister of Defense, has come under fire from the MR party for allegedly abusing her power by granting military personnel a day off to participate in a protest scheduled for February 13, 2025.

On January 23, Dedonder authorized 24,000 military personnel to take leave to protest against proposed pension reforms in Arizona, intensifying political pressure against her.

Denis Ducarme from the MR party argues that Dedonder's actions violate caretaker governance principles and misuse state resources, which he claims undermines democracy.

Prime Minister Alexander De Croo expressed his astonishment at Dedonder's decision, which he learned about through social media, and has requested its retraction due to a lack of justification.

This controversial decision has been labeled a 'state affair' and has sparked significant debate regarding the intersection of political action and military duties.

De Croo highlighted that the exemption creates legal uncertainty for military personnel and could cost the state around 5 million euros, as military salaries would continue despite their absence.

De Croo criticized the political instrumentalization of the Defense Ministry, emphasizing that such significant decisions should undergo parliamentary scrutiny, especially when they coincide with a union protest.

In her defense, Dedonder stated that her decision reflects an understanding of military personnel's concerns and mentioned her intention to respond to the Prime Minister's letter.

The MR party has issued an ultimatum to Dedonder, demanding she retract her decision within 24 hours or resign, citing a breach of neutrality.

The situation highlights escalating tensions in Belgium's political landscape, with various parties taking strong stances on military pensions and rights.

Critics from various parties, including CD&V and N-VA, have accused Dedonder of political bias and abusing her power by permitting military protests against an unformed government.

Despite the backlash, Dedonder intends to maintain the current pension regime for the military, asserting that her decision to allow protests is justified.