Mechelen –
The show in Mechelen to celebrate the presidency of the European Union was disrupted for more than fifteen minutes on Saturday evening by pro-Palestinian protests.
Dozens of activists had mingled with the crowd. They waved flags and chanted slogans to express their dissatisfaction with the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and Europe’s attitude. One of the activists also addressed the crowd, but was led away by the police.
Orchestra leader Dirk Brossé tried several times to calm the mood, but that had little effect. Singer Laura Tesoro also attempted to restore peace by taking up a Palestinian flag. Skirmishes broke out in the crowd, after which plainclothes police intervened.
Finally, Mayor Bart Somers (For Mechelen) climbed onto the stage. He called on the activists to also show respect for the large crowd that showed up. “Everyone has the right to freedom of expression, but the people who come for the party also have the right to that,” says Somers.
After just over half an hour, with a technical problem, the show was able to resume. Then Bart Peeters also made a statement. “It will be okay one day. Peace and love on earth.”
Opposition leader Marc Hendrickx (N-VA) is ashamed of the action. “I demand that the city council reject them,” he says.