2024-01-26 19:13:00
”Charles Michel’s decision is that of a man who has devoted his entire life to public affairs and decides to take a step back from this unfailing commitment. It must command the greatest respect. He did not cheat and did not want to divert the debate from the real issues. His choice should alert us to the way in which public debate is organized today, too often neglecting substantive issues,” according to Mr. Bouchez.
Charles Michel withdraws from the European election
He also expressed his “real disappointment at having to do without his presence at the head of the list for the European elections but Charles is and will always be an eminent member of our political family”.
As for his replacement, the president of the Liberals has left nothing to show at this stage.
”The MR is a movement which has very numerous resources as well as very significant appeal. A duo at the top of this list will be presented in due course. There is no urgency,” added Mr. Bouchez for whom the current priority is the finalization of the program with a view to the next party congress, on February 4 in Marche-en-Famenne.
Charles Michel announced Friday evening to everyone’s surprise that he would renounce the European election of June 9 in order to be able to complete his mandate as President of the European Council. The former Belgian Prime Minister justified his decision by “the scale and radicality of certain negative reactions” that occurred after the announcement of his candidacy, 20 days ago.
Before this announcement, European Commissioner Didier Reynders had also announced his “availability” to appear on the liberal list for the European elections.
Didier Reynders returns to his ouster from the European lists and reacts to the words of Georges-Louis Bouchez: “It’s very nice of him”
1706328416
#real #disappointment #GeorgesLouis #Bouchez #reacts #Charles #Michels #surprise #withdrawal #European #elections