As our country is about to cross the threshold of 200 days without a government since the elections of 9 June 2024, Georges-Louis Bouchez, MR President, stresses the urgency of ending political games and respecting voters' choice.
The current negotiations, led by formateur Bart De Wever, aim to form an "Arizona" coalition bringing together the N-VA, the MR, Les Engagés, CD&V and Vooruit. Despite intensive discussions, disagreements remain, particularly on socio-economic and budgetary reforms. King Philippe has extended Bart De Wever's mission until 7 January 2025, hoping for a decisive breakthrough early in the year.
Georges-Louis Bouchez points out that Belgium, with a tax burden reaching 57% of GDP, does not have a revenue problem but one of excessive spending and waste. He calls for rigorous management of public finances, inspired by the methods applied in Wallonia and the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, where clear figures take precedence over vague rhetoric.
The MR President stresses the need for a change of mindset in politics, advocating rigour, seriousness and hard work as the driving forces of government action. He notes that in economics, sport or science, it is measurable results that prove the quality of work done, and that politics should be no exception.
As the country is subject to an excessive deficit procedure and must present a budget plan for 2025 to the European Commission, accompanied by reforms and investments, Georges-Louis Bouchez calls on all political actors to act responsibly to form an effective federal government that honours the commitments made to citizens.