Two more candidates have put themselves forward for the forthcoming election to find a new leader for the Flemish liberal party Open VLD. Unlike the favorite Frédéric De Gucht, Francis Uyttebrouk and Filip Walleyn are relatively little-known figures. Whether they can pose a serious challenge to Mr Gucht remains to be seen.
At the 11th hour 2 more candidates have put themselves forward in the race to become the new leader of Open VLD.
In films published on social media Francis Uyttebrouck describes himself as a “liberal opinion maker”. If he were elected party leader he would give Open VLD a clearer liberal profile with regard to social-economic themes such as taxation. Mr Uttebrouck days that he wants to “Make liberalism great again”.
Like Francis Uyttebrouck, Filip Walleyn is a “Senior financial manager”. Neither has any experience on the national political stage. Filip Walleyn runs a company that helps Belgian companies find subcontractors and blue-collar workers.
Under the banner of “Libra” – Liberal Right Alternative – Mr Walleyn promotes classic, so-called “dark blue liberalism” and has small government and lower taxes as his priorities.
Mr De Gucht is in pole position
Although Frédéric De Gucht is in pole position it is quite possible that a candidate perceived not to be part of the party establishment could score surprisingly well in the leadership election.
The member of Open VLD can vote for a new leader from 12 noon on Wednesday 15 October until 12 noon on 17 October. If necessary, a second round of voting will take place between 22 to 24 October.