Sint-Niklaas (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Odisee College in Sint-Niklaas held an election debate for about 400 students ahead of the October 13 municipal elections. Key politicians included mayors Maike De Rudder and Stay De Rechter, while Conner Rousseau was replaced by Achraf El Yakhloufi.
Odisee College in Sint-Niklaas organized an election debate before the municipal elections on October 13. About 400 students came to the event, including college students from Odisee and high school students from the area. The debate gave these young people a chance to see discussions about local political issues in Waasland and learn about the important topics for the elections. Politicians and candidates from different parties took part in the debate, sharing their ideas and plans for the community.
How can youth engagement in local elections impact democracy?
The debate was part of a larger effort to engage younger generations in the democratic process and increase political awareness. By involving students in the conversation, the event aimed to help them understand local government and how upcoming elections could impact their future. It also promoted critical thinking and civic engagement, encouraging students to become informed voters and active members of their communities.
Politicians from different areas in Waasland visited Sint-Niklaas to chat with young people. Some mayors there included Maike De Rudder from Sint-Gillis-Waas and Stany De Rechter from Stekene. Other politicians were Björn Rzoska from Lokeren, Chris Wauman from Sint-Niklaas, and Ine Somers from the Liberals. The debate was supposed to be the first meeting for three key figures from Sint-Niklaas, the current mayor Lieven Dehandschutter, Vlaams Belang leader Filip Brusselmans, and Conner Rousseau from Vooruit. However, Rousseau couldn’t make it because of government discussions, so they sent Achraf El Yakhloufi from Turnhout to take his place.
Wase politicians were upset during the debate and wondered why Vooruit didn’t send someone from Sint-Niklaas. They asked if there was no one local to join the discussion. Some students thought it was odd for a politician from Turnhout to speak for Sint-Niklaas, making the debate feel less engaging, even though he was a good storyteller. Achraf El Yakhloufi from Vooruit was surprised by the reactions and said it was a last-minute change. Conner Rousseau wanted to be there but couldn’t because of government talks, and they couldn’t find a local replacement quickly since many were busy. He felt ready for the debate and thought the issues were similar in both places.
