Can You Have Your Family in Local Government?
Ah, politics—the only profession where your closest relations can become your worst enemies! Let’s dive into a topic that adds a dash of *Family Feud* to the realm of local governance: can two members of the same family sit in government together? Spoiler alert: not in municipal councils! But in broader political arenas? Why not! It’s like musical chairs, but with a dash of nepotism.
Picture this: two relatives, let’s say a brother and sister, both get elected in different municipalities, only to find that thanks to the local democracy code, one of them has to pack their bags and head back home. A bit harsh, isn’t it? I mean, if a family can’t share a seat at the council table, what are family dinners going to look like?
The Law Behind the Family Feud
Under current legislation, it’s deemed a no-go for municipal councilors to be relatives or allies up to the second degree. Imagine trying to explain that at Thanksgiving! “Sorry, bro, can’t sit together; it’s against the law!” It’s like the French Revolution all over again—just instead of beheading the kin, we’re just keeping them out of politics altogether. Yes, folks, it’s been that way since the glorious days when people tossed a few wigs and royal heads in the air!
Historical Throwback
The rationale behind this antiquated rule comes from a desire to dismantle the old regime dominated by a handful of powerful families. It seems the idea was that if you prevent families from monopolizing power, you might just stand a chance at achieving some semblance of democracy. According to lawyer Jérémie Tojerow, the law was established to make sure the likes of the Bourbons couldn’t return to power—unless via TV reruns or royal weddings, of course.
This little nugget of legislation made its way to Belgium during the heady times of French rule and has somehow clung on for dear life, like that awkward uncle you can’t seem to disinvite from family gatherings. The question remains: should we still hold on to these restrictions, or is it time to modernize?
Modern Politics: No Room for Family Ties?
One can argue that keeping a few family members out of local governance may help avoid awkward moments at family picnics when debates on budget allocations arise. But consider this: would politics not benefit from a little domestic squabbling? After all, politics is ultimately about differing opinions, and what better way to stir the pot than having your sibling in the mix? Imagine the debates over dinner! “You think we should allocate funds for new parks? Well, I think we should build a monument—of your defeat!”
Conclusion: Family Matters? Not in Local Government!
So, to answer the burning question: in municipal councils, families are off-limits. But in regional and federal governments? Grab a seat at the family table—politics is a family affair! As for local councils, perhaps it’s time to rethink the rules. After all, if we really want to spice up the political discourse, why not throw some family drama into the mix? Just think of the headlines!
For more spicy takes and political revelations, don’t miss “You are in the newspaper” from Monday to Friday, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Bel RTL.
In a government, could we have two members of the same family?
In different municipalities, two members of the same family were both elected last Sunday but, as provided by law, only one of the two will have the right to sit. And in a government, could we have two members of the same family?
Yes, whether in a federal or regional government. Same thing for parliaments. This is only not possible at the municipal council level.
Indeed, under the Code of local democracy and decentralization, municipal councilors cannot be relatives or allies up to the 2nd degree inclusive, therefore brother and sister, parents and children, nor be united by the bonds of marriage or legal cohabitants.
A provision that dates back to the French Revolution. According to the lawyer specializing in political dynasties Jérémie Tojerow: “it was established at that time to break the mechanisms of the old regime in the hands of a few families.”
It was transposed in Belgium, when our country was under French domination. And since then, it hasn’t changed.
Also read Student demonstration against a prefect in Ciney: what will Wallonia-Brussels Education do?
Find “You are in the newspaper” from Monday to Friday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Bel RTL.
You are in the newspaper
