Former Justice Minister Paul Van Tigchelt (Open VLD) has urged Prime Minister Bart De Wever to invite the judiciary’s top officials to his office to find a solution to the growing discontent within the justice system.
Recent days and weeks have seen an escalation in protests within the justice sector. At the heart of the issue is a pension reform being developed by the De Wever government, which appears to be the last straw for a system that has long suffered from a lack of resources.
Flemish Minister of Justice Zuhal Demir (N-VA) has described the situation as “very alarming.” She noted on public broadcaster Een, “This is very dangerous in a democracy and a state governed by the rule of law.” She emphasised understanding the frustration but added that neglecting duties is not the solution.
Former federal minister Van Tigchelt, now in opposition, echoed this sentiment. “They have the right to express their dissatisfaction,” said the liberal, but warned, “it becomes dangerous if the judiciary is used to attack the executive power. That leads to the erosion of the rule of law.”
Van Tigchelt was also critical of Prime Minister De Wever, suggesting that he needs to convene the judiciary’s leaders in his office to find a mutual solution. “It doesn’t help to pour oil on the fire by dismissing the Brussels public prosecutor as a PS creature,” he said.
