Frédéric De Gucht Invoices 12,900 Euros Monthly Through Corporate Vehicle
Frédéric De Gucht, leader of the Anders party, invoices his political party 12,900 euros gross every month through his private company, according to financial details reported by Het Nieuwsblad. That monthly payment exceeds a standard parliamentary faction leader’s gross salary by one euro. De Gucht defended the corporate payment structure in an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, explaining that he does not collect a standard parliamentary salary and relies entirely on the party for his remuneration.
An examination of De Gucht’s corporate annual accounts reveals he distributed 1.5 million euros in dividends to himself since 2019. De Gucht stated that he reinvested those funds and paid a 25 percent corporate tax alongside a 30 percent withholding tax on the amounts. After taxation, he draws what he describes as a normal salary, noting that he pays standard rates for medical care and that his children do not qualify for study grants.
Budget Coalition Talks and Company Car Debates
As negotiations continue toward a budget agreement within the government led by De Wever, CD&V leader Sammy Mahdi rejected labeling the upcoming legislative package as a “Halloween deal.” Speaking to Het Laatste Nieuws, Mahdi called that characterization an ineffective strategy. Mahdi also addressed proposals to eliminate company cars, questioning how the policy would impact working taxpayers.
Eighty percent of company cars are registered in Flanders among active workers, according to Mahdi’s remarks. He warned that stripping away company vehicles while other regions retain social benefits and allowances risks alienating the public from politics. Mahdi indicated a willingness to discuss the future of company cars only if their removal is directly tied to a drastic reduction in taxes on labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Frédéric De Gucht receive his party salary through a company?
De Gucht stated that unlike many other party presidents, he does not have a parliamentary salary, leaving his political party responsible for his full financial compensation through his corporate entity.
What tax rates apply to the dividends De Gucht withdrew?
According to his disclosures in Het Nieuwsblad, De Gucht paid a 25 percent corporate tax and a 30 percent movable withholding tax on the 1.5 million euros in dividends he distributed to himself since 2019.
What is Sammy Mahdi’s stance on company cars?
Mahdi stated that removing company cars without substantial reductions in labor taxation would cause public backlash, though he remains open to discussing reforms if work-related taxes are significantly lowered.