Former Flemish minister and veteran of Ghent local politics Vera Dua (ecologist) has been asked to help conduct talks in the East Flemish capital in an attempt to unblock the impasse following the local elections. The socialist/liberal alliance Voor Gent attempted to ditch its green coalition partner for the Flemish nationalists of N-VA, but the socialist rank and file didn’t provide sufficient support for the coalition to go ahead. The greens now have the initiative to form a new majority on Ghent city council.
‘Vera Dua brings rich experience’ the green party says. ‘She has always enjoyed good relations with several leaders of Voor Gent and believes the parties can find agreement. The greens are eager to set the tone for constructive and open talks that will lead to a progressive coalition in Ghent.’
Vera Dua will provide feedback on her exploratory talks on Wednesday, after which negotiations can start.
Speaking before her appointment Ms Dua said: ‘There’s a good match between the greens, socialist Vooruit and progressive Open VLD liberals. It’s very unfortunate that it turned out this way. But Ghent is Ghent, a rebellious city. Ghent’s DNA doesn't match well with (Flemish nationalist) N-VA!’