Belgian politician Jacques Van Gompel, who served as mayor of Charleroi from 2000 to 2006, passed away on August 21, 2026, at the age of 79. His life's work in public service has left a lasting impact on the people of Charleroi and beyond. Born in Gilly on June 12, 1947, Jacques Van Gompel dedicated his life to the service of his community.
As a member of the Socialist Party (PS), he was elected in 1978 as a representative for the Charleroi area in the Belgian Parliament. His commitment to public service led him to resign from the Parliament in 1983 to focus full-time on the administration of Charleroi.