The spotlight is on Maximus, the new feline addition to Belgian politics, whose Instagram debut has captured public attention. Premier Bart De Wever’s communication team has been busy not with the summer accord press conferences but with managing Maximus Textoris Pulcher’s social media presence. Since 2025-07-23 23:00:00, this charming cat, rescued from a Buggenhout shelter, has been living comfortably in Wetstraat 16, the heart of Belgian political power.
- Premier De Wever launches Instagram for Maximus
- Maximus is an FIV-positive rescue cat
- Maximus influences political negotiations humorously
- Scottish Fold breed controversy sparks crisis communication
- Minister Weyts supports adoption of rescue cats
- Prince Laurent spotted dining at McDonald's
Maximus is more than just a pet; he’s become a symbol of warmth and levity amid serious political negotiations. But why has this Scottish Fold cat sparked controversy, and what does his presence mean for the Wetstraat? As De Wever shares anecdotes about Maximus’s role in the summer accord talks, questions arise about animal welfare and political image. Let’s delve into the story behind Belgium’s most talked-about political feline.
How does Maximus’s presence reflect on political communication and animal welfare in Belgium? This unusual “spindoctor” offers insight into several key points:
- Maximus serves as a light-hearted figure during intense political negotiations, easing tensions in Wetstraat 16.
- The controversy over his Scottish Fold breed highlights Belgium’s strict animal welfare laws, especially the 2021 ban on breeding such cats due to genetic defects.
- Vlaams minister Ben Weyts’s response underscores the importance of adopting shelter animals, even those from restricted breeds.
- Maximus’s story draws parallels with Larry, the UK Prime Minister’s cat, showing how pets can humanise politics.
Looking ahead, Maximus’s role could inspire more politicians to embrace pets as ambassadors for animal welfare. Will other Belgian political figures follow De Wever’s lead and promote adoption? Only time will tell, but Maximus’s paws have certainly left a mark on Wetstraat 16.
