David Clarinval will become deputy prime minister for the MR in the federal government, party chairman Georges-Louis Bouchez also said at a press conference.
The substitutions follow the departure of Sophie Wilmès (47). She resigned yesterday due to the illness of her husband, who has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. At the end of April, she already took a step aside. Prime Minister Alexander De Croo (Open Vld) then temporarily took charge of the Foreign Affairs portfolio.
“My husband’s illness will be a difficult battle that I want to fight by his side and by the side of our children,” Wilmès announced yesterday. “My current duties in government do not allow me to do that. With great emotion I think of all people who also have to fight against a disease. I thank from the bottom of my heart the many people, from all over society, who have supported us, and still do. I also thank the Prime Minister and my federal colleagues who ensured continuity during my absence. To those who succeed me and to the entire government, I wish success and perseverance to bring to a successful conclusion the projects and reforms that our country so desperately needs.”