Brussels City Council paid tribute on Monday to the influential but discreet city stalwart, socialist Jean-Marie Amand, who passed away last week at the age of 76 following a swift decline in his health.
Jean-Marie Amand was a close associate of the former President of the Senate, Anne-Marie Lizin.
His long-standing involvement in city affairs made him a cornerstone of local politics. His openness inspired respect across-the-board, including from political opponents, who joined Mayor Philippe Close in Monday’s tribute at the start of the council session.
Jean-Marie Amand undertook various roles during his career, fulfilling them, according to all, with unwavering commitment: city councillor, social aid adviser, vice president of the Public Centre for Social Action (CPAS), direct adviser to mayors Freddy Thielemans and Philippe Close, and head of a section of the Socialist Party (PS).
A committed secularist, he also actively supported patriotic associations, and was a firm advocate of the annual Meyboom tree planting, an unmissable event in the capital’s folklore.
