Bart De Wever’s rescue cat, Maximus, has become a social media sensation since the cat’s account launched in July, gaining tens of thousands of likes within months. The posts pair images of the Scottish Fold with sardonic cartoon commentary on issues from budget fights to strikes. Supporters say the account humanises the 54‑year‑old prime minister and is an effective PR tool; critics say it can trivialise serious political debates. Posts are reportedly uploaded by the prime minister’s personal assistant.
Belgian Prime Minister’s Cat Maximus Becomes an Unexpected PR Star
In one post on Instagram, a speech bubble reads: ‘Nothing on TV to help him prepare for tomorrow’ - Instagram
Bart De Wever, Belgium’s prime minister, has found a surprising public-relations asset in a rescue cat named Maximus. The grey Scottish Fold has rocketed to social media fame since an account for the cat launched in July, attracting tens of thousands of likes within months — outpacing the prime minister’s own online following.
From Rescue Cat To Political Sidekick
The posts pair charming photos of Maximus — from stroller rides to catnaps beside Mr De Wever’s desk at 16 Rue de la Loi — with sardonic cartoon captions about Belgian politics. Topics covered range from the country’s long-running budget showdown to strikes over austerity and proposals for a voluntary military service for young Belgians.
Maximus, who was rescued from a shelter in July, now enjoys a life of luxury courtesy of Bart De Wever
In October, a post responding to news of a foiled drone attack on the prime minister showed Maximus reclining with the caption, "Maximus, can you catch a drone?" The cartoon reply: "No — but I’m catching dreams like no one else!" Another clip — the prime minister pretending to play "Amazing Grace" on bagpipes using Maximus’s tail — drew sharp criticism during tense budget negotiations.
Why It Matters
Political analyst Prof Dave Sinardet says the account helps refresh Mr De Wever’s image and signals he does not take himself too seriously. "It’s a smart way to do political PR," he said. "It makes politicians seem friendlier, gentler — considering that most people see them as rational, even arrogant figures."
On the left: ‘Maximus, you have put on weight!’‘That is my winter coat! Catshaming!’
“Quite the summary of their politics: noise and hot air,” — Patrick Prevot, socialist MP
Deploying pets for political messaging is not new. Most U.S. presidents have been photographed with animals at the White House, and Larry, the Downing Street cat, is already a global celebrity with nearly 900,000 followers on X. People close to the operation say posts on the cat’s account (@maximustp16) are uploaded by the prime minister’s personal assistant, suggesting the effort is a deliberate, managed part of Mr De Wever’s communications strategy.
Supporters argue the posts humanise the 54-year-old leader and provide a lighter way to engage the public. Critics counter that the light-hearted tone can trivialise serious political debates at sensitive moments. Either way, Maximus has become a visible — and influential — part of the story around Belgium’s political life.
