Controversy is swirling around Belgian N-VA politician Theo Francken after videos surfaced showing him urinating in public in Brussels, Het Laatste Nieuws reports.
The clips, which went viral on social media over the weekend, show Francken peeing on the lively known Boulevard Emile Jacqmain in central Brussels. Another video captures him unsteadily sitting on a chair at a café terrace.
While the person who filmed these clips has not been identified, and the videos themselves are not dated, Francken verified that he is the individual seen in the footage. He also clarified that the incidents took place last year.
Speaking to the media, Francken confessed to a "reckless night out" that followed a "hectic and taxing period." Describing his actions as "ill-advised," he acknowledged the videos are "mortifying." Nevertheless, he noted, "I can't justify my behaviour, but in the final analysis, I'm just a human being."
The surfacing of these videos has intensified scrutiny on Francken's conduct, more so in the wake of a similar recent incident involving friends of Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne. With yet another 'Pipigate' scandal in play, the ramifications for Francken's political standing are as yet unclear.
