Ghent – Mayor Mathias De Clercq (Voor Gent) will remain on medical leave until September 11, 2025, amidst ongoing budget negotiations. The city council is set to convene on September 2, 2025, while unions are preparing for actions to assert their demands, reports 24brussels.
According to VRT News, De Clercq’s team confirmed his absence from official duties due to health reasons, however, essential municipal services continue to operate as usual during his leave.
The upcoming city council meeting on September 2 will occur without the mayor, who is extending his leave based on medical advice following earlier budget discussions.
Implications of Mayor De Clercq’s Extended Leave
The mayor’s medical team has advised a further period of rest to prioritize his health. The city is assured of its operational continuity in his absence.
De Clercq initially took a temporary leave in late June 2025 after intense budget talks aimed at achieving €120 million in annual savings. During these discussions, he experienced health issues that led to a hospitalization for observation, after which he was advised against returning to work immediately.
Having served as the mayor since 2013, De Clercq’s recovery period has now been extended beyond the previously planned return at the end of August 2025. His team is reportedly considering further extending his leave at the guidance of his doctors to ensure a complete recovery before he resumes his duties.
