Sarah Willockx runs for Sint-Niklaas council to honor father

Sarah Willockx, aged 49, has announced her candidacy for the municipal council in Sint-Niklaas, motivated by a desire to honor her late father, Freddy Willockx, who was a prominent socialist politician. Freddy passed away in mid-June at the age of 76 after a period of illness, leaving behind a legacy of public service that included roles as a minister, state secretary, member of the European Parliament, and mayor of Sint-Niklaas. His contributions to both local and national politics were significant, and his sudden death was felt deeply by the community. In her social media posts, Sarah expressed her mixed emotions about running for office, particularly as her candidacy coincides with what would have been her father's 77th birthday. She views this political journey as a tribute to her father’s commitment to the community and aims to continue the work he started but could not complete. Sarah is running with the Vooruit party, where she has been placed 15th on their list, indicating her intention to follow in her father's footsteps while establishing her own identity in politics. Conner Rousseau, the leader of the Vooruit party in Sint-Niklaas, has publicly supported Sarah's candidacy, emphasizing her passion for care and equal opportunities. He believes that her strong connection to the community and her dedication to public service will be vital for the party's success in the upcoming elections. Sarah's decision to run is not only a personal endeavor but also a significant moment for the community, as it reflects the enduring impact of her father's legacy and the values he championed throughout his career. The municipal elections are set for October 13, and Sarah is determined to make a difference in Sint-Niklaas, inspired by her father's vision for the city.