Karl-Heinz Lambertz, a former Minister-President and Speaker of Parliament of the German-speaking Community, bade farewell on Wednesday evening after his last plenary session in the community’s parliament, to which he was first elected 42 years ago.
Lambertz, 71,became a member of the Community's Parliament in 1981, then held various ministerial posts in the Government of the Community from 1991 to 1999.
He was Minister-President of the Community from 1999 to 2014, when he became Speaker of Parliament, a post he held until 2016.
He was then appointed to represent the Community in the Belgian Senate.
In June 2019, Lambertz resumed office as speaker of the Community’s Parliament.
The current Speaker, Charles Servaty, praised Lambertz’s long political career on Wednesday.
“Karl-Heinz consistently focused on the institutional situation of our community, with autonomy being a top priority,” he said. “From constitutional amendments to skills transfers, and his role as a royal mediator in 2008, he always advocated for the interests of Eastern Belgium.”
Community Prime Minister Oliver Paasch also spoke to thank his predecessor. “Karl-Heinz is a shrewd strategist, who has often known his briefs better than his advisers or staff,” he said.
“He despises errors but adores discipline. His long-term vision and favourite phrases like ‘deeply root and expand your network’ will guide us for many more years,” the Prime Minister added.
For many years, Lambertz has advocated for a four-way split in Belgium. “I am convinced of this, as is he,” said Paasch, thanking Lambertz for his service.
Lambertz took the floor for the last time to reflect on his career’s highlights and express his gratitude.
He thanked his voters across nine legislatures, everyone he collaborated with, and his family – who stood by his side throughout his years as a dedicated public servant, passionate about politics, living for the German-speaking Community and its citizens.
