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VRT defends Ketnetband's performance at N-VA family day amid growing criticism
The planned performance of the Ketnetband at the N-VA family day in Plopsaland is facing increasing criticism from various quarters.
At the N-VA family day in Plopsaland, the Ketnetband from VRT will perform. This news has sparked significant criticism, particularly from the Groen party, which is calling for an immediate cancellation of the performance. Groen argues that the presence of the Ketnetband jeopardizes the neutrality of the public broadcaster.
According to De Standaard, Flanders' Minister of Media, Cieltje Van Achter (N-VA), has also raised questions about the situation. She has urged VRT to reassess the framework for such performances. This indicates that the issue has sparked a broader discussion within the political sphere.
Additionally, the socialist union ACOD-VRT has expressed its opposition to the performance, with a representative calling it 'unimaginable'. This reaction points to internal divisions within the public broadcaster regarding the performance.
The VRT itself defends the booking of the Ketnetband, stating that it was arranged by the theme park rather than the political party. This position was reiterated in both De Standaard and Gazet van Antwerpen, where VRT's defense against the accusations from Groen and Vooruit was discussed.
The growing protest against the Ketnetband's performance has prompted a number of public reactions. Not only Groen but also ACOD-VRT has voiced concerns, with the latter noting that the situation is inappropriate.
Currently, there is no further information about the consequences of this controversy, but the remarks from both Groen and ACOD-VRT suggest a deeper concern regarding the role and neutrality of the public broadcaster in politics.