Édouard Philippe has recorded a four-point decline in public approval ratings according to the latest monthly barometer, marking a significant shift in his political standing following the opening of a formal investigation into his administration of Le Havre.
The investigation, confirmed by the National Financial Prosecutor’s Office (PNF) last week, focuses on allegations of misappropriation of public funds, favoritism, illegal conflict of interest, and concussion. The inquiry centers on the governance of the Le Havre Seine Métropole and the city’s municipal operations, specifically targeting the processes surrounding the awarding of certain public contracts and the management of local promotional entities.
The former prime minister and current mayor of Le Havre has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Through his legal representatives, Philippe has maintained that all administrative procedures conducted under his tenure have adhered to established procurement laws and public transparency requirements. His legal team has stated their intent to cooperate fully with the PNF, emphasizing that the preliminary investigation is a standard procedural step that will ultimately demonstrate the regularity of the municipality’s financial and contractual activities.
The statistical decline, which tracks public sentiment following the public disclosure of the prosecutor’s investigation, places the Horizons party leader in a more precarious position as he navigates both his mayoral duties and his national political ambitions. While the barometer reflects a immediate cooling in voter support, political analysts note that the figures coincide with a period of heightened scrutiny over the local governance of the Normandy port city.
The investigation remains in its preliminary phase, during which the PNF is tasked with determining whether the evidence warrants a full judicial inquiry or if the case should be dismissed. Investigators are currently examining internal documents and administrative records related to the partnerships and service contracts that form the basis of the initial complaints.
The National Financial Prosecutor’s Office has not released a timeline for the conclusion of the preliminary investigation, and no formal charges have been brought against the mayor or any municipal officials at this time. The office continues its review of the evidentiary material provided by the preliminary inquiry team.
