After having questioned the Minister of Local Authorities for the first time last November, the environmentalist returned to the charge. The object of his questioning? Good use of public funds.
A “special” chronology
As a reminder, following the publication of this article, Claude Eerdekens decided to take legal action against the journalist who authored this investigation. The City of Andenne also. “The use of public money from the city of Andenne to carry out such legal actions aimed at putting pressure on journalists is particularly disturbing”estimates Stéphane Hazée while pointing out a chronology that he describes as “particular”.
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“The citation was communicated to the journalist assigned by the City on October 11, 2024 while the municipal council only adopted the decision on October 21, 2024, on the basis of an addendum added to the order of October 17, 2024 and signed by the mayor then still in office”he explained to Minister Desquesnes. “It would be necessary to check whether the document presented to the municipal council for adoption is the same as that previously given to the assigned person.”
In November, Minister Desquesnes indicated that he had asked his administration to analyze, while respecting the principles of impartiality and separation of powers, two points in particular in this matter: “the implication of a municipal act on the principle of the separation of powers and the compatibility with article 25 of the Constitution of a legal action by a municipal authority vis-à-vis a press source. “
Asked about the progress of the investigation by Stéphane Hazée, the minister indicated that the investigation was still underway at the SPW. “I know that the deliberations and the requested additions have been transmitted. The guardianship period will expire on December 27. Also, and I am sorry, by virtue of the duty of impartiality incumbent on me, I can no longer comment express as to the merits of the case […] I will take a position on this matter within the time limit prescribed by the Code of Democracy.”
As a reminder, in November, François Desquesnes also stressed that it was not up to him, as minister, to judge the appropriateness for a local authority to take legal action. “On the other hand, it is my responsibility to ensure that municipal decisions are consistent with the general interest. “
