Marc Botenga and Rudi Kennes, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), have made it clear that they will vote against the newly proposed European Commission under the leadership of Ursula Von der Leyen. The two MEPs from the Workers’ Party of Belgium (PTB) have raised concerns about the Commission’s stance on austerity, its refusal to tax the ultra-wealthy, and its complicity in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Austerity Measures and Social Cuts
The European Parliament is set to vote on Von der Leyen’s new Commission this Wednesday. The Commission will be supported by the three traditional political groups — conservatives, liberals, and social democrats — as well as by the Italian far-right and even the European Greens. Facing this far-right-aligned Commission, Botenga and Kennes have vowed to stand as social opposition.
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Rudi Kennes, a European MEP, criticized the Commission for focusing on austerity measures rather than making the wealthy or large multinational companies contribute. “Instead of targeting millionaires or big corporations, this new Commission is setting its sights on workers. Under the guise of austerity, Von der Leyen plans a series of cuts to public services and wants to force states to dismantle social rights like pensions,” he stated.
No Mention of Taxes for the Ultra-Wealthy
Kennes also highlighted that the new Commissioners’ mission does not include any mention of taxing the ultra-rich, an issue that has been a point of contention for many. “This Commission has nothing to offer in terms of addressing the collapse of European industry or the escalating war in Ukraine. It’s shocking that the socialist and green groups will back Von der Leyen’s anti-social policies,” Kennes added.
Failure to Address Palestine and European Inaction
Marc Botenga, another MEP, also condemned the Commission for failing to take action on international issues. “Israel is accused of genocide, its occupation is deemed illegal, yet this Commission refuses to consider European sanctions. This complicity must end,” he said.
Despite questions raised during hearings, none of the Commissioners supported sanctions against Israel, drawing sharp criticism from Botenga and his colleagues.
A Militaristic Shift and Misplaced Priorities
The MEPs also expressed concerns over what they called the “militaristic” shift of the new Commission. For the first time in history, a Commissioner will be specifically responsible for the military industry. “We already spend much more on military expenses than countries like Russia or India, but this Commission wants to funnel billions into arms multinationals that are already making excessive profits. We should redirect that money into areas that truly need investment — our schools, hospitals, and public transport systems,” argued Marc Botenga.
The Need for a Strong Industrial Policy
Kennes further pointed out the lack of an active public industrial policy amid widespread factory closures across Europe. He emphasized the urgent need for a public energy sector vision to secure Europe’s industrial future, especially in the face of rising energy prices driven by the war in Ukraine and US efforts to weaken European industry.
With concerns mounting over the European Commission’s direction, both Botenga and Kennes remain firm in their opposition, pledging to advocate for policies that prioritize social welfare and justice over militarization and austerity.
This article is originally published on ptb.be
