Melissa Depraetere

Melissa Depraetere will be absent for medical reasons from 14 January 2026 until the birth of her child. After that, she will take maternity leave.

During her absence, she will be replaced by Hans Bonte, who will assume her responsibilities.

Melissa Depraetere studied political science at the University of Ghent, after which she worked as a parliamentary assistant to sp.a Parliament Member Alain Top. From 2014 to 2018, she was a public centre for social welfare councillor in Harelbeke. She was elected Harelbeke municipal councillor in the 2018 municipal elections, where she also assumed the role of sp.a group leader.  

Melissa Depraetere was elected Member of the Chamber of Representatives in June 2019, becoming the youngest group leader in 2020. In addition to her federal mandate, she was Vooruit party chairwoman between 18 November 2023 and 18 July 2024.