Ouffet, Belgium – A significant police presence was deployed Monday, February 9, 2026, in the Belgian town of Ouffet ahead of a visit by Georges-Louis Bouchez, the president of the MR party, and Interior Minister Bernard Quintin. The heightened security measures come in anticipation of protests during a conference addressing government reforms.
Authorities confirmed that 133 police officers were mobilized for the event, a figure comparable to the security detail provided during a previous conference attended by Bouchez in Flémalle last week, according to Sudinfo.be. The deployment includes similar tactics used in Flémalle, such as road closures and security perimeters.
The conference, scheduled for Salle aux Oies, is intended to provide an overview of recent reforms and allow for discussion with the public. Bouchez and Quintin are expected to outline changes related to national security, as detailed on the event page, “Sécurité rien à dealer” (Security, nothing to deal with).
Local officials have implemented parking restrictions around the venue, prohibiting parking on the cemetery lot and partially in the Temme neighborhood from noon on February 9th until 2 a.m. On February 10th. Several streets surrounding the Salle aux Oies will also be closed to traffic. L’Avenir reported that these measures are “classic and proportionate.”
Despite the security preparations, authorities are aiming to minimize disruption to local residents. “There is no desire to disrupt local life, but to prevent any obstruction to traffic or access to the hall,” said Ouffet’s mayor-deputy, Caroline Cassart.
Approximately 35 protestors were reported to be planning a demonstration, intending to gather on the Grand Place, according to DHnet, with organizers stating they “are not cattle to be penned.”
The substantial security response underscores the potential for unrest surrounding the political event, as officials seek to balance freedom of expression with public safety.
