PM Luc Frieden defends record and rules out reshuffle

In a recent radio interview with our colleagues from RTL Radio on Saturday, Prime Minister Luc Frieden asserted that the CSV-DP government has already implemented a significant portion of its electoral promises and remains "on the right track."

Reflecting on his coalition's first two years in power, Prime Minister Frieden described the period as "exciting". He acknowledged that implementing the coalition agreement naturally generates opposition. "On the path to implementation, you naturally encounter those who disagree," he stated, noting that such debate is "a good thing" in a democracy. Despite this, he affirmed that the government's North Star remains the implementation of its campaign promises, conceding that "one cannot always satisfy everyone."

"Politics is complicated"

On the subject of the housing crisis, the Prime Minister said the government has enacted a series of measures to "reduce the problem." He reported that these are already having an impact but emphasised that more work is needed, a task in which municipalities also play a crucial role.

In the fight against poverty, one planned measure is an increase to child benefit scheduled for 2027, with a particular focus on support for children over the age of twelve. The Prime Minister did not specify the amount of the increase, stating that it "still needs to be discussed within the government."

Healthcare reforms on the horizon

Frieden also outlined key healthcare priorities for the coming months, with a deadline set for next summer. He confirmed that the system of state-agreed medical fees will remain intact. Further reforms include allowing more medical activities outside of hospitals without direct supervision, and establishing medical practices in which only doctors can be partners. The number of hospital beds is also set to be increased, the Prime Minister confirmed.

Unclear whether Luc Frieden will remain CSV President

Luc Frieden has left his political future with the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) open, declining to reveal whether he will seek re-election as party president at next year's national congress. When questioned on Saturday, he stated he "would not rule it out."

Addressing the demanding nature of the dual roles, Frieden acknowledged that his leadership style may require more visibility. "It is a great deal of work," he said, conceding that he "probably needs to be more present on the ground" and was willing to accept that as criticism. He defended his approach, however, by explaining that spending significant time in the office is part of his nature, a practice he maintained during his previous ministerial posts.

No cabinet reshuffle planned

Shifting to the government's internal dynamics, Prime Minister Frieden described the coalition atmosphere as "very good," both politically and on a personal level. He emphasised that the coalition is implementing its programme together and, while acknowledging that "not everything was wonderful," pointed to "very good progress."

In response to rumours of a potential cabinet reshuffle that would see Ministers Georges Mischo and Martine Deprez replaced, Frieden was definitive. "That is not on the cards," he stated, adding that the government's focus remains on continuing to implement its programme.