To prevent conflicts of interest
Adopted in the wake of the Publifin affair, the governance decree of March 29, 2018 imposes strict rules on incompatibilities to strengthen transparency and avoid conflicts of interest. The directors of municipal or provincial authorities, legal entities managing certain public services of a commercial or financial nature, are particularly concerned.
This measure aims to guarantee a clear separation between the management of these entities and political responsibilities at the municipal level. Thus, Cédric Baudlet, as manager of the RCA of the Jamoigne sports center (Chiny), finds himself in a situation of incompatibility which deprives him of his position as alderman. He could have kept his secret position at Tintigny, but he would have been forced to resign from his job at the RCA in Jamoigne.
A contested regulation, but confirmed
This case is not isolated. Frédéric Sevrin, director of a RCA in Herstal, challenged this provision before the Constitutional Court in 2018. He considered the measure unfair and infringing on his right to participate in political life, particularly in a municipality distinct from that where he exercises his duties. professional functions. Exactly like Cédric Baudlet.
However, the Court rejected his appeal in a judgment dated November 29, 2018, deeming the measure proportionate and necessary to preserve good governance and prevent conflicts of interest. She stressed that this rule responds to increased ethical requirements following past scandals, thus strengthening transparency in local public functions. A case law which is therefore not in the interest of Cédric Baudlet.
An inevitable transition
The “Commune en Vie” group, of which Cédric Baudlet is a member, was informed this Saturday morning by the mayor of Tintigny, Benoît Piedboeuf. Internally, we blame the blow, not without a certain emotion.
Faced with this legal constraint, the Tintigny municipal college had to resolve to appoint a successor. Reynald Klepper, originally from Rossignol, will take over the functions of alderman. Although he is demoted to the position of municipal councilor, Cédric Baudlet is not giving up. He promises to remain committed to defending the interests of the citizens of Tintigny and to put his experience at the service of the municipality, despite a now more limited role.
The case of Cédric Baudlet illustrates the concrete applications of the new rules in terms of good local governance. While these provisions aim to strengthen transparency and trust in institutions, they can also cause frustration and force committed elected officials to adapt their political path. Cédric Baudlet had to choose between his heart or his reason, between his mandate or his job.
