Belgium's political landscape has been plunged into turmoil in the aftermath of last week's tragic shooting in Brussels that claimed the lives of two Swedish nationals.

The resignation of Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne has created a storm of controversy, with Paul Van Tigchelt taking his place. This appointment has stoked frustration within the Open VLD, the party led by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. The crisis could escalate if Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden is found accountable for the errors that contributed to the Brussels shooting.

The crisis was triggered when it came to light that a magistrate failed to act on Tunisia's extradition request for the individual responsible for the tragic deaths of two Swedes in Brussels. This revelation prompted Justice Minister Van Quickenborne's resignation on a Friday evening. Subsequently, Van Tigchelt was appointed as his successor, which incited outrage within the Open VLD, the Flemish liberal party led by Van Quickenborne.

Open VLD members expressed their discontent with the selection of Van Tigchelt, as he was preferred over party members who have an active presence in the Chamber of Representatives or the Flemish parliament. A meeting has been scheduled by the party for Monday, though numerous prominent politicians are boycotting the event.

Gwendolyn Rutten, the former leader of Open VLD, announced her departure from national politics, while former Minister Patrick Dewael is contemplating a future as part of an independent party. This development adds to the challenges faced by De Croo's party, already the smallest in Flanders according to recent polls.

Verlinden Under Scrutiny

The ongoing turmoil could lead to further resignations. Interior Minister Verlinden is maintaining her position, asserting that the Belgian police followed all procedures correctly. She enjoys support from the leaders of Vooruit and PS, the socialist parties within the government, who are standing by her "with the information available today."

However, Verlinden will face rigorous questioning in the House of Representatives this week. If fresh revelations contradict her claims, it could precipitate another resignation and exacerbate the crisis within Belgium's federal government. Photo by World Economic Forum, Wikimedia commons.