Former mayor of Antwerp Patrick Janssens makes a comeback for the municipal elections
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Loading... - Rosy Klein
- 30 Aug 2024
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Patrick Janssens, the former mayor of Antwerp, is making a return to politics by standing fourth on Vooruit’s list in the upcoming municipal elections on 13 October.
Janssens was a prominent political figure in Antwerp, serving as mayor from 2003 to 2012, before being defeated by Bart De Wever of the N-VA. Following his loss, Janssens stepped away from politics, pursuing academic and professional endeavors, including a PhD in spatial and urban planning and a role as general director of KRC Genk football club.
Now, at 67, Janssens is re-entering the political arena, though he has stated he has no ambitions to reclaim the mayoral seat. His primary focus is on urban development, particularly opposing projects that he believes will increase traffic in the city center, such as a proposed tunnel under the Scheldekaai.
Janssens has expressed concern that developers have too much influence in Antwerp, and he aims to advocate for urban planning that prioritizes the interests of the city’s residents. He believes that Vooruit is essential to achieving these goals.
