2023-12-15 13:44:00
So, we even see old glories of the party regaining momentum. They are found on electoral lists at various levels of power. Leading figures from the past are getting back in the saddle: and presto! we find them side by side with young candidates in an electoral battle which, today, six months before the election, is far from having revealed all its secrets.
Any benefit for political parties
Calling old canons to the rescue to improve the score of political parties in the elections? The idea is far from absurd. According to VUB political scientist Dave Sinardet, the notoriety of veterans plays a role and allows parties to gain additional votes. He emphasizes that those who ran in 2019 achieved good results: Jan Peumans (N-VA), Louis Tobback (Vooruit) and Mieke Vogels (Groen) really did well in the last election. On the contrary. These veterans are there, it should be noted, to push the list but, with some exceptions, do not occupy an eligible place. These personalities are capable of making a difference: their notoriety still plays a significant role for many today. Dave Sinardet even goes so far as to say that the political parties would be wrong not to seek their help.
Helping young people network
The political scientist assures that their presence on the electoral lists also gives confidence to young people. Their presence is like a label of quality for the party which, very often, presents on its lists candidates still unknown to the general public.
In the VRT show De Afspraak, Willy Claes (Vooruit) testified, emphasizing that he thought he might make a small contribution. “I was asked to push the Vooruit list to Hasselt. I didn’t hesitate for a second. I consider it my duty to help my party. And also to help manage the city of Hasselt. I want to help younger generations develop their relationships,” said the former NATO Secretary General. Willy Claes confirms that the heads of his party’s list in Hasselt are thirty-somethings. According to him, the renewal of party executives continues at present.
As for Antwerp resident Mieke Vogels, she believes she still has a role to play within Groen. More particularly to help the elderly. “I am part of the baby boomer generation and I am proud of it,” declared Mieke Vogels (Groen) who believes she can help her party improve its communication with seniors.
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