“When the King visits a town, it’s serious”, said a Dutch-speaking colleague sadly. And the atmosphere was indeed serious and solemn in the sports hall of Strépy-Bracquegnies, transformed into a reception center for victims and their relatives after being the starting point of a folk procession devastated by a driver. At 4 p.m., rescuers hard at work since dawn received a visit from King Philip, who was accompanied for the first time by Crown Princess Elizabeth. Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden, Walloon Minister-President Elio Di Rupo and Regional Minister Christie Morreale were also present. Some met families of victims before the arrival of the sovereign.
Once the King of the Belgians arrived, the highest authorities of the country held a working meeting with the local authorities behind closed doors.
After observing a minute of silence, the King, the Princess and the ministers greeted the thirty rescuers who took care of the victims and their families… For some, when the adrenaline of the day has subsided, the emotion is suddenly came back and the tears couldn’t be held back. We witnessed scenes of hugs and comfort, reminiscent of a time when the Covid did not exist. The sovereign’s visit lasted an hour. At the end, Alexander De Croo kept to a brief statement. “It was to be a day of celebration after the difficult period of the Covid, it became a day of mourning”deplored in three languages the Prime Minister in front of an extremely well-stocked audience of journalists, including many foreign media, to the great astonishment of some. “We are all with the family and loved ones of the victims. We also want to thank the emergency services who did everything possible”continued the Prime Minister.
In front of the sports hall, many wanted to attend this visit. “It shows that they care about us, that we exist”confided a woman, moved, like most of the inhabitants who saw their day of celebrations turn into a nightmare.