Middelkerke Mayor Links National Political Future to Local Road Project

Middelkerke Mayor Jean-Marie Dedecker declared his national political career is far from over, linking its continuation to the realization of a crucial connecting road project for his municipality. Dedecker, who leads the LDD party, stated he will not step away from national politics until the road, intended to link the E40 highway to Middelkerke's center, receives approval.

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My national career is not over yet.

During a debate in Diksmuide, Dedecker expressed frustration, asserting that Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder (N-VA) had previously promised significant funding for the project. He had reportedly agreed to lead the West Flanders N-VA list in the previous election in exchange for this support. However, only a fraction of the expected funds was allocated for a feasibility study, a move Dedecker called "false promises."

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False promises were made.

Now, Dedecker points the finger at another minister, Hilde Crevits (CD&V), for allegedly blocking the project. "For Antwerp, they throw billions around, I'm asking for 60 million euros. And if that's too much, I just want the permits. Then we'll do it ourselves," he stated, emphasizing the project's necessity for his town's viability.

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For Antwerp, they throw billions around, I'm asking for 60 million euros. And if that's too much, I just want the permits. Then we'll do it ourselves.

This stance marks a potential reversal for Dedecker, who had announced earlier this year that he would not run on a national list again. When asked if his national political future was tied to this local issue, he confirmed, "You could say that." He remained tight-lipped about which party he might represent in future national elections, dismissing speculation that his comments were related to Georges-Louis Bouchez and the MR party's potential expansion into Flanders.

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You could say that.