MR party chairman Georges-Louis Bouchez stirred political tensions by announcing that a Brussels government could be formed “within a few hours,” taking several key parties by surprise, including Groen and Vooruit Brussels. His remarks, made during celebrations for the Flemish national holiday, drew sharp criticism for bypassing negotiations and pushing premature statements.
Elke Van den Brandt, Groen’s Brussels leader, accused Bouchez of political showmanship: “We are not a plaything of a party leader, but a region of 1.2 million people, the capital of Europe,” she said. Van den Brandt emphasized her party has long been ready to negotiate but criticized the lack of real discussions.
Vooruit Brussels also expressed confusion, stating they had not had recent contact with either MR or PS. Despite this, Bouchez confirmed that talks with PS had resumed, marking a step forward after months of deadlock following the regional elections.
“Brussels is on the verge of bankruptcy,” Bouchez said, stressing the urgency. He acknowledged that the coming government would not be ideal but emphasized working with the election results: “You have to play with the cards you have.”
The new government is expected to hold a majority in both language groups. However, the inclusion of the N-VA remains contentious — supported by Open VLD but firmly opposed by the PS. Freya Van den Bossche of Vooruit publicly criticized PS for rejecting N-VA, calling it undemocratic and disrespectful toward Flemish Brussels residents.
Brussels Mayor Philippe Close (PS) called for unity and urged political leaders to “talk, listen, negotiate, and above all: show respect.” Meanwhile, N-VA leader Bart De Wever blamed PS figures, especially Ahmed Laaouej, for stalling government formation through exclusionary tactics.
Despite the public friction, Bouchez insists that a resolution may come before Belgium’s national holiday on July 21st.