Speaker of the Flemish Parliament resigns – Vlaams Belang’s Filip Dewinter replaces him

The Speaker of the Flemish Parliament Kris Van Dijck (N-VA) caused a political earthquake in Belgium today by resigning from his position as Speaker.

Last week Mr Van Dijck crashed his car while driving under the influence; he is also suspected of having had an illicit relationship with a prostitute.

“Recent events have made it impossible for me to act as Speaker of the Flemish Parliament. I have never done anything that is against the law. Those who know me a little know this. Today’s allegations are totally incorrect,” said Mr Van Dijck in a statement.

As a consequence of Mr Van Dijck’s resignation, Filip Dewinter, the leader of the far-right Flemish nationalist party Vlaams Belang, became de facto Speaker of the Flemish Parliament. He immediately scheduled a meeting of leaders of other major Flemish parties for this Friday morning, where they will discuss the appointment of a new permanent Speaker.