Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on Sunday announced his resignation following a major defeat at the ballot box. 

The decision came after a significant defeat for his party, the Open Flemish Liberals and Democrats (Open VLD), which scored only 5.9 per cent of the vote at the European parliamentary elections. Over 90 per cent of the votes had already been counted, according to the Italian news agency Agenzia Nova. 

“Tomorrow, I will resign as prime minister,” Mr De Croo declared, decrying his party’s defeat. Notwithstanding, Mr De Croo said he was hopeful about long-term political successes for the Liberals, saying they “are strong, we will return.” 

Even though Mr De Croo will step down, he is expected to continue in his position as Belgium’s interim leader until a new government is convened. 

Belgium, as a whole, will still be holding the rotating presidency of the European Council, which changes every six months among member states, until June 30, 2024. 

On December 8, 2023, Mr De Croo, emphasised that in addition to the European continent, people in the Middle East are facing a terrible war, and promised to prioritise the unfolding global crises.

“We know we need to play a role in this matter,” he said during a meeting of European leaders, many of whom remained sceptical about Israel’s war in Gaza and the raging civilian toll. 

Conservatives scored big across Europe on Sunday, with right-wing coalitions announcing victories in Italy, Germany, France, and Spain, among others. 

Samuel Ogundipe  ReporterPeoples Gazette +234-818-949-4325www.peoplesgazette.com Plot 1095, Umar Shuaibu Avenue, Utako, Abuja