Ninove, Belgium is facing increasing scrutiny over its municipal governance as the number of complaints filed with the East Flanders governor’s office has risen sharply since Forza Ninove took power in 2024. The surge in legal challenges, brought primarily by opposition parties, centers on concerns about the legality and fairness of decisions made by the current administration, particularly regarding taxation and regulations affecting non-Belgian residents. This escalating tension highlights a growing pattern of disagreement and legal contestation within the city’s political landscape.
The situation underscores a broader trend of increased opposition to Forza Ninove’s policies, with critics alleging a disregard for due process and discriminatory practices. While Forza Ninove defends its actions as necessary for the city’s financial stability and security, opposition groups argue that the administration is overstepping its authority and unfairly targeting specific segments of the population. The recent rulings by the governor in favor of the opposition demonstrate a growing willingness to challenge the city’s decisions through legal channels, raising questions about the future direction of Ninove’s governance.
The core of the dispute revolves around several key issues, including increased taxes, particularly on property, and new regulations concerning travel documents for non-Belgian residents. Opposition parties claim these measures are discriminatory and lack legal justification, while Forza Ninove maintains they are essential for maintaining public services and ensuring the city’s financial health. The governor’s intervention in these cases has repeatedly sided with the opposition, leading to the annulment of several city council decisions and fueling further conflict.
Rising Number of Complaints Signals Deepening Political Divide
According to data reported by P-Magazine, the number of complaints lodged with the governor of East Flanders has increased significantly under Forza Ninove’s leadership. From an average of 4 to 7 complaints annually between 2019 and 2023, the number jumped to 16 in 2024, the year Forza Ninove assumed office. This trend continued in 2025 with 19 complaints, and as of March 12, 2026, two cases are already under review. This dramatic increase suggests a systemic breakdown in consensus-building and a growing distrust of the city’s governing body.
The complaints cover a wide range of issues, from the demolition of a former school building to restrictions on flyer distribution by trade unions, and, crucially, the increased costs of travel documents for non-Belgian residents. The governor has intervened in multiple cases, correcting decisions made by the city council. Mayor Guy D’haeseleer has characterized the complaints as a “diarrhea of complaints,” suggesting a deliberate attempt to undermine his administration. However, opposition parties maintain they are simply exercising their democratic right to challenge decisions they believe are unlawful or unjust.
Tax Increases and Discriminatory Practices Under Scrutiny
One of the most contentious issues has been the series of tax increases implemented by Forza Ninove in December 2025 as part of its multi-year plan. The property tax rate was increased from 866 to 940 per cent, a move justified by Forza Ninove council member Rudy Corijn as a “justified and fair tax” that ensures “the strongest shoulders contribute more.” However, the N-VA party launched a website, www.corijntaks.be, to allow residents to calculate the financial impact of the tax increase, claiming that families could face hundreds of euros in additional costs over six years.
Beyond property taxes, Forza Ninove also increased taxes on vacant and dilapidated properties, unsolicited mail, late-night shops, and “belshops” – businesses suspected of facilitating illegal activities. These measures have drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse Forza Ninove of reversing promises made during the election campaign to reduce burdensome taxes. Stijn Vermassen of Vooruit argued that the administration was “adding a hefty scoop to everything” after previously advocating for tax fairness.
Perhaps the most controversial decision, however, was the increase in the cost of travel documents for non-Belgian residents. Groen party member Jordy De Dobbeleer filed a complaint with the governor, arguing that the new tariffs were “discriminatory” and represented a 300% increase for non-Belgian applicants. De Dobbeleer asserted that this regulation would be overturned, and, the governor has since ruled against the city on this matter, a decision Forza Ninove is currently considering appealing.
Governor Intervenes, Annuls City Council Decisions
The governor’s office has repeatedly intervened in disputes between Forza Ninove and the opposition, often siding with the latter. In addition to overturning the discriminatory travel document fees, the governor has also annulled a regulation imposing a blanket ban on flyer distribution, which opposition groups argued stifled freedom of expression and hindered their ability to campaign. These interventions demonstrate a willingness to uphold legal principles and protect the rights of citizens against perceived overreach by the city council.
The governor’s rulings have not been without consequence. The annulment of decisions forces Forza Ninove to revisit its policies and potentially incur additional costs to comply with legal requirements. The repeated interventions erode public trust in the city council and raise questions about its competence and adherence to the rule of law. The ongoing legal battles also divert resources away from other pressing municipal issues, hindering the city’s ability to address the needs of its residents.
Carnaval Security Measures and Placebos
In a separate, but related, development, Mayor Guy D’haeseleer issued a “placebo” – a prohibition order – on February 20, 2026, targeting young people with a history of criminal activity in an attempt to prevent disruptions during the annual Carnaval celebrations. The order aims to prevent individuals known for offenses such as assault, vandalism, theft, and weapons possession from gathering during the festivities. This measure, while intended to enhance public safety, has also drawn criticism from civil liberties advocates who argue it could infringe on the rights of innocent individuals.
What’s Next for Ninove?
The future of Ninove’s governance remains uncertain. Forza Ninove has indicated its intention to appeal some of the governor’s rulings, suggesting a continued willingness to fight for its policies in the courts. The opposition, meanwhile, is likely to continue challenging the administration’s decisions, seeking further intervention from the governor and potentially exploring other legal avenues. The ongoing conflict threatens to paralyze the city council and hinder its ability to address the challenges facing the community.
The next key development will be the city council’s decision on whether to appeal the governor’s ruling regarding the travel document fees for non-Belgian residents. This decision will likely set the tone for future interactions between the city council and the governor’s office, and could further escalate tensions or pave the way for a more constructive dialogue. The situation in Ninove serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law in local governance.
The increasing number of complaints and the governor’s interventions highlight a critical juncture for Ninove. Whether the city can overcome its political divisions and restore public trust remains to be seen. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and perspectives on this developing story in the comments below.