Yvan Verougstraete, president of the Engagés, criticized Georges-Louis Bouchez's comments on government priorities, emphasizing that the MR does not have sole authority over government agreements.

Bouchez's interview suggested significant social security cuts, which he deemed necessary for budget renegotiation, but his remarks about single-parent families and unemployment drew strong criticism from the Engagés.

Reactions from the Engagés highlight increasing tension within the political landscape as discussions for a major agreement proceed ahead of the July 21 deadline.

Maxime Prévot, Verougstraete's predecessor, called Bouchez's comments a 'beau strike' and expressed concern over his attacks on vulnerable groups and public services.

Bouchez's provocative remarks during an interview with La Libre Belgique sparked controversy and elicited strong reactions from the Engagés party.

The upcoming government meeting, or kern, is expected to be pivotal in addressing the fallout from Bouchez's statements and setting government priorities.

Verougstraete condemned Bouchez's proposals, especially the idea of cutting unemployment benefits without sufficient funding for community support services, warning against shifting burdens to municipalities.

Bouchez's comments prompted sharp criticism from Engagés members, including Maxime Prévot and Yvan Verougstraete, who viewed his stance as caricatured attacks on social services and security.

Prévot stressed that Bouchez's views do not reflect the government's agreed policies, reaffirming commitments to support single-parent families, cultural sectors, and human rights.

Bouchez expressed his support for strict public spending cuts during the interview, invoking Margaret Thatcher's legacy and advocating for a reduced role of the state in the economy and society.