Flanders – Bob Maes, the notable Flemish nationalist and founder of the VMO, has passed away at the age of 100. His death was announced by his family last week. A significant figure in Flemish politics for decades, Maes played a crucial role in shaping nationalist sentiment in Belgium throughout his lifetime, reports 24brussels.
Maes, who co-founded the Flemish Militant Order (VMO) in the early 1950s, initially aimed to maintain order during nationalist gatherings. However, the group became known for its violent episodes. The VMO controversially supported amnesty for World War II collaborators, garnering substantial criticism in post-war Belgium. During his teenage years, Maes was involved with the collaborationist Vlaams Nationaal Verbond (VNV).
Following the war, he served a year in prison for his wartime activities but remained dedicated to the Flemish nationalist cause for over 30 years. In 1971, he disbanded the VMO amid increasing violence associated with the group, later denouncing its extremist actions in public interviews.
What made Bob Maes a controversial figure in Flemish politics?
For decades, Maes’s influence permeated Flemish politics. He was actively involved with the People’s Union (Volksunie) since its inception in the 1950s, holding significant positions at both local and national levels. As a senator in the Belgian Senate during the 1970s and 1980s, Maes notably opposed the Egmont Pact, a pivotal proposal aimed at restructuring Belgium and enhancing regional autonomy.
In addition to his senatorial role, Maes served as a municipal councillor in Zaventem, where he was instrumental in shaping local governance. Notably, he did not align himself with the far-right Vlaams Blok upon its formation in the late 1970s. After the dissolution of the Volksunie in 2001, he joined the New Flemish Alliance (N-VA), with his family continuing his political legacy; his daughter Lieve Maes also serves in the Senate and the Flemish Parliament for the N-VA.
Despite his departure from active politics, Maes remained a figure of contention. Approximately a decade ago, his presence was highlighted during his 90th birthday celebration, attended by prominent politicians including Ben Wetsand and Theo Francken. This association provoked calls for Francken’s resignation from several political parties due to Maes’s controversial past.
