The El Kaouakibi scandal erupted in 2021, with the politician accused of submitting false invoices or agreements to secure subsidies for her Antwerp youth project, Let’s Go Urban. Allegedly, the funds were redirected to other companies for different purposes.
- El Kaouakibi used false invoices for subsidies
- Funds diverted from youth project purposes
- Correctional court referral after extensive investigations
- Antwerp city claims 270,000 euros damages
- Flemish Community demands 320,000 euros repayment
- Let's Go Urban declared bankrupt organization
“The charges for which parliamentary immunity has been lifted are forgery and subsidy fraud,” said Kristof Aerts, spokesperson for the Antwerp Prosecutor’s Office. ([brusselstimes.com](https://www.brusselstimes.com/1274497/flemish-mp-charged-for-stealing-almost-e600000-in-public-funds?utm_source=openai))
On October 17, 2024, the Antwerp Council Chamber decided to refer Sihame El Kaouakibi, her partner, and the now-defunct non-profit Let’s Go Urban to the criminal court. The city of Antwerp claims €270,000 in damages, while the Flemish Community seeks €320,000. ([lalibre.be](https://www.lalibre.be/dernieres-depeches/2024/10/17/lets-go-urban-la-chambre-du-conseil-renvoie-sihame-el-kaouakibi-devant-le-tribunal-correctionnel-HGWC6CQZOVB73KN3XHJ5SHDJMI/?utm_source=openai))
The case has had profound implications for Belgian politics and public trust. Key developments include:
- The bankruptcy of Let’s Go Urban in June 2021, leading to the loss of services for many young people.
- The resignation of El Kaouakibi from the Open VLD party, highlighting the party’s commitment to integrity.
- Ongoing legal proceedings that may set precedents for handling similar cases in the future.
As the legal process unfolds, it is crucial for Belgian citizens to stay informed and engaged, ensuring that such incidents do not erode public trust in our institutions. Will the justice system hold those responsible accountable? Only time will tell.
