## Brussels Government Faces Crisis as Secretary of State Resigns, Sparking Political turmoil
The Brussels government is bracing for a contentious period following the resignation of Secretary of state Nawal Ben Hamou (PS), triggering a power struggle and raising concerns about the region’s already fragile political stability. The move, announced as a pursuit of “personal convenience” to take on a role as alderman for Housing in the City of Brussels starting in February, has ignited criticism and exposed deep fissures within the governing coalition.
What has notably angered several members of the Brussels executive is the stated reason for Ben Hamou’s departure. Unlike the withdrawal of Sven Gatz (Anders, ex Open VLD) which was attributed to health reasons, Ben Hamou’s decision is perceived by colleagues as prioritizing a career advancement.
“A voluntary departure for a question of comfort suggests that if she can leave, the others stay for pleasure,” remarked Bernard Clerfayt (Défi), Brussels Minister of Local Authorities. He further stated, alongside Ecolo, his party remains in opposition but committed to staying in their roles, highlighting what he sees as a double standard. The sentiment is echoed within groen, where Minister of Mobility Elke Van den Brandt is observing the situation wiht circumspection.
uncertainty Over Future Departures and Budgetary Concerns
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The resignation has sparked speculation about further departures, even potentially including Minister-President Rudi Vervoort. While sources within the socialist party insist Vervoort is committed to remaining in his position – “Rudi is a statesman, he will remain until the last day” – anxieties remain high. A government member reportedly exclaimed, “We all want to leave, what do you think? My office has been tidy as July 2024.”
the timing of Ben Hamou’s announcement is particularly problematic given the ongoing budgetary crisis. The implementation of the 2026 budget has stalled due to the refusal of Brussels Minister of Finance Dirk De Smedt (Anders) to negotiate. With the first tranche of the budget in provisional twelfths set to expire on March 31, the Region faces the prospect of losing spending authorization. “We have other emergencies than managing everyone’s career ambitions,” a government source lamented.
The Laaouej Enigma and Potential Replacements
The strategy of Ahmed Laaouej, president of the regional PS, remains unclear. While speculation centers on former federal minister Karine Lalieux as a potential replacement, other names, including Caroline Désir and even a candidate from civil society, have been mentioned.
By requesting a replacement, the PS is sending a mixed message, according to Clerfayt. “By calling for a replacement,the party is sending a signal that business as usual could last forever. If the PS really did everything to form a government, it would be done in a month.”
The departure also casts a shadow over the social housing sector, which Ben Hamou previously oversaw. Clerfayt emphasized the precarious state of the SLRB (housing company of the Brussels-Capital Region), which was “saved from narrow bankruptcy by imposing sales of buildings and a review of reference rents.” He added, “So, leaving now feels bad.” Both Défi and Groen are adopting a cautious approach, awaiting further developments before committing to a position on Ben Hamou’s departure.
Rudi Vervoort will need to employ considerable diplomatic skill this Thursday to secure acceptance of the transition, a move he reportedly did not initially support. The Ben Hamou cabinet has declined to provide further comment. Ultimately, this affair threatens to further erode trust among ministers, with many reportedly contemplating similar departures.
