Minister Desquesnes to File Defamation Complaint Over European Funds Allegations
La Louvière, Belgium – Walloon Minister François desquesnes intends to file a complaint for defamation following accusations of embezzlement of European funds related to a project at the Saint-Joseph Institute. The allegations stem from a complaint filed by an ASBL (non-profit organization) criticizing the demolition of a chapel to make way for a refectory,arguing the structure could have been renovated rather. the ASBL contends the demolition violates European funding guidelines prioritizing preservation.
The project is financed with 3.2 million euros in European funds. While the ASBL initially pointed to Minister Desquesnes’ involvement, citing a ”violent” initial press release directly implicating him, the organization has since softened its language and altered the title of its press release, removing direct references to the Minister and Aurore Tourneur, the former head of commitments who initially launched the project.
“I do not see how I could have diverted European funds, its anything. It’s scandalous to say that,” Desquesnes stated. He noted the complaint was initially filed against “X.”
Despite the ASBL’s revised messaging, it continues to request a criminal investigation, referral to the OLAF (European Anti-fraud Office) and the EU Court of Auditors, and a suspension of the European funding allocated to the project.
Though, reports indicate the Walloon administration previously approved the demolition project as presented by the Saint-Joseph Institute, and the city of La Louvière reversed an initial unfavorable opinion after a series of conditions were met, ultimately issuing a favorable assessment.