Jean Gigounon, 23, lives in the centre of Binche, has been a 'gille' since childhood and is a former chairman of la Binchoise. He started as an intern during the campaign for the European, federal and regional elections, and has been working since mid-July as a political adviser to Georges-Louis Bouchez. He worked actively on the campaign for the October elections. On election night, he was elected municipal councillor in his municipality.
This week, let's get to know our young elected representative from Binche and political adviser, Jean.Coming 24th on the MR-CI list, you scored 524 votes. How did your first election campaign go? How did you experience it?
This campaign was an incredible human experience. All the more so because I had the opportunity to wear two hats during this campaign.
As a candidate, together with my fellow list members, we did intense grassroots work: door-to-door canvassing, leafleting, market visits, conversations with residents. These encounters confirmed that the MR shares their concerns. Our efforts paid off, as we went from 5 to 8 seats on the municipal council.
At the same time, as an aide to the MR presidency, I experienced the strategic intensity at national level, and it's very rewarding to see that the results are there, not only in my municipality but across the whole country.
You've now been elected to serve the people of Binche and the municipality. Which issues are particularly close to your heart over the next 6 years?
Throughout my campaign, I focused on young people. I've always been involved in youth associations in Binche, even during my studies. Unfortunately, in Binche we see that not all associations are treated equally when it comes to support from the town. This support is, moreover, particularly opaque… So I'd like to bring more clarity and fairness.
As a liberal, I'm convinced that everyone should be able to fulfil themselves through income from work. That's why I want to support young entrepreneurs, as well as those looking for work. Because yes, even at the municipal level, it's possible to put in place concrete and effective employment measures.
For the first time in almost 20 years, the MR will be in opposition in Binche. How do you see the role of an opposition councillor? Are you apprehensive about the atmosphere at the next council meetings?
As we slowly approach the end-of-year festivities, if our readers pass through Binche in December, what can they expect? Will the Christmas spirit be present in the streets of Binche?
Yes! I strongly recommend coming to Binche during the festive season. You'll find a wonderful Christmas market with quality stallholders. Don't forget to visit the town's shops for your end-of-year gifts too. The shopping streets and shop windows are often beautifully decorated for the occasion.