The idea that virologist Marc Van Ranst is invited to the May 1 celebrations of the PTB does not happen to everyone …
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If there is one face that is popular in this period of health crisis, it is that of Marc Van Ranst. The virologist appears every day in the media to give his opinion and he is one of the characters of the crisis in whom the citizens have, for the most part, confidence. But since this Monday, the controversy has swelled about it.
Marc Van Ranst will be the guest of the PTB’s May Day celebrations. He is considered by the Belgian workers’ party as one of the heroes of this unprecedented period, as well as a bus driver, a nurse or even a Cuban doctor, and will therefore have the opportunity to exchange a few words with Raoul Hedebouw and Peter Mertens.
“Why not for the N-VA? “
An invitation that causes quite a stir on social networks, in particular. But can a virologist go to a political event? “I don’t see why I couldn’t,” says Marc Van Ranst. “It will be a debate on the coronavirus crisis. I would do that for the Liberals or for the CD&V with pleasure. And why not for the N-VA on July 11 [le jour de la fête nationale flamande, NDLR] ? It’s still a long way off, but my agenda is far from full, ”he said ironically to media in the north.
Nevertheless, for VUB political scientist Dave Sinardet, Marc Van Ranst should avoid going to this event: “It’s not a good idea,” says Sinardet. “It’s an open secret that Van Ranst is attached to the PTB. It’s his choice, of course, and he’s free to talk about what he wants. But these days, he is a public figure. It can be a problem, people may take its scientific message less seriously. At this time, it would be nice to stay away from political parties. Talking about politics is something other than going to give your opinion in a school or on a TV show, “continues Sinardet.
Marc Van Ranst does not hide the fact that his political ideas are “to be found on the left”, but wonders if someone can really “prove that a political message is hidden in a virological advice”.
Obviously, it should be noted that the PTB festivities, like all the others, will obviously take place online.
