Four other parties at the table identify Bouchez as the main obstacle to achieving the 10 billion euros in savings, with Deputy PM David Clarinval acting under Bouchez’s influence.

Bouchez’s public appearances with Flemish business circles are criticized as unserious or out of touch by Flemish media and entrepreneurs, fueling reputational damage for MR and Belgian politics.

Observers note Bouchez’s paradox: he admires PM De Wever and desires reform without socialist involvement, yet his blocking posture risks destabilizing the government and sparking elections.

Bouchez has not offered viable policy alternatives, contrasting with his earlier cooperation during the Vivaldi government when he supported budgets.

His stated position refuses a VAT increase and commits to avoiding measures that clash with his party’s values, raising questions about his overall strategy and goals.

If stalemate persists, the temporary budget could delay reforms like pensions and unemployment, unsettling other coalition partners.

The budget crisis centers on MR’s opposition to tax increases and demand for credible alternatives to raise 10 billion euros amid broader negotiations.

The Belgian political scene is centered on Georges-Louis Bouchez, whose inflexibility and perceived intransigence are blamed for thwarting progress within the government, especially if a temporary budget mechanism is used.

Observers warn the fragile coalition dynamics in Brussels could widen governance risks, with talks potentially revived under the king and the possibility of a socialist return to power.

Federal negotiations continue, and the MR party, led by Bouchez, is seen as a major barrier to reaching an agreement.

Commentators question Bouchez’s political strategy, suggesting he risks electoral backlash and casting doubt on his willingness to form a future coalition, which could hurt MR’s fortunes.

Bouchez publicly backs the Arizona plan but rejects any VAT hike, a stance viewed as blocking progress and straining coalition cohesion.