Belgian Mayor Sparks Debate with ’Sidi Nicolas’ Holiday Suggestion

Saint-Gilles has forged a partnership with the Moroccan city of Berkane, known for its clementines. "It’s a way to find a link with the Muslim community of the municipality," explains the mayor of Saint-Gilles, Jean Spinette (PS) in an interview with La Dernière Heure on the feast of Saint-Nicolas and its inclusive character. "You have to know that many people living in Saint-Gilles are from this region of Morocco. And I would find it funny to have a Sidi Nicolas who provides clementines to children." These remarks have apparently not amused Yannis Bakhouche, head of the MR Saint-Gilles list. "To be honest, it seemed like a joke at first," he admits.

He will add: "It seems the mayor is trying to divert attention from much more serious problems by launching this idea of changing the name of Saint-Nicolas to Sidi Nicolas. Saint-Nicolas is a Catholic tradition that delights all the little ones, regardless of their origin or religion. It’s a time when we come together, share candies, chocolates and create memories together." "Why try to change something that brings everyone together for trivialities?" asks Bakhouche. "It has never been a demand from the Muslim community, either, it’s really surprising."

Jean Spinette felt compelled to explain himself after his controversial joke. "In a humorous tone, I mentioned this mix of traditions and origins that characterizes Saint-Gilles and mentioned that in the end Saint-Nicolas was more inclusive than we thought since he has always offered a well-known seasonal fruit. And that, consequently, we could have said Sidi," the mayor clarifies. He continues: "A newspaper headline was drawn from this that makes it look like we would like to change the name of Saint-Nicolas or this beautiful tradition appreciated by all the children in Saint-Gilles. This is obviously not the case and the Saint-Nicolas event is particularly appreciated in all the schools in our municipality. It will be celebrated this year as always and I regret this unnecessary controversy."

This is not enough to convince the head of the MR Saint-Gilles list. "Look around you, security problems have been on the rise for months and mobility is becoming a real headache with citizen arrests at every municipal council. The current majority does not seem to be responding effectively to these challenges. Rather than trying to please with ideas that divide, we should work together to solve these concrete problems that affect each of us on a daily basis."