Prime Minister Xavier Bettel recently gave an interview to the German News Agency (DPA), during which he shared his motivation for seeking re-election.

As the legislative elections on 8 October approach, the question arises: Will Xavier Bettel retain his position as Prime Minister? While it is premature to make predictions, the head of government is gearing up for the race.

"I have the motivation and energy to continue working and advancing the country," Xavier Bettel declared during his conversation with DPA, which took place in Luxembourg.

"I've done the job; I've done what I thought was right. Now, it's up to the citizens to decide whether it was the right path," he added, stating that he has a "clear conscience" five years after his re-election.

"When I compare Luxembourg to other countries, we are not doing badly," Bettel remarked. He highlighted the successful management of the Covid-19 crisis and the relatively controlled inflation in comparison to the rest of Europe. In addition, he acknowledged the joint efforts of the government and social partners in safeguarding purchasing power in recent years.

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To his credit, the Prime Minister can pride himself on having held together an unprecedented three-party coalition for a decade. His government's accomplishments include significant advancements such as the promised €100 pay increase in 2018, the introduction of free public transport, an additional day off for employees, and the recent legalisation of cannabis.

However, the pressing issue of housing, which remains a top concern for Luxembourg residents, persists. The legislation implemented thus far has not adequately addressed the housing shortage and the concentration of land in the hands of a minority.

The DP congress and the road ahead

At 50 years of age and after ten years as Prime Minister, Xavier Bettel's first step is securing his position as the lead candidate for the Democratic Party (DP) during the party congress on Saturday, 8 July. Following that, the campaign period begins, and Bettel eagerly anticipates it, stating, "I am always on the move and enjoy engaging in discussions." After the recent local elections, in which Bettel expressed satisfaction with the results, his primary objective will be to demonstrate that he remains the driving force behind the coalition with the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) and the Green Party (déi Gréng). Paulette Lenert, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health, has declared her readiness to assume the role of Prime Minister and is polling favourably.

While the Green Party may appear to be lagging behind, their performance will also play a crucial role in determining the coalition's future. Responding to an attack last spring by Luc Frieden, the lead candidate of the Christian Social People's Party (CSV), Bettel had countered, "there is chemistry with the LSAP and the Greens."

The opposition, particularly the CSV, is already positioning itself to regain power. In addition, the smaller opposition parties, such as the Pirate Party and the Alternative Democratic Reform Party (adr), both hope to secure parliamentary groups in autumn.