French presidential candidate Philippe targeted in embezzlement probe

French investigators are probing allegations of embezzlement involving presidential candidate Edouard Philippe. The probe concerns the allocation of a digital hub contract in Le Havre, where Philippe serves as mayor. A former senior local official accuses Philippe of possible misconduct related to the 2020 awarding of management of the digital hub to an association chaired by one of his deputies. Philippe denies the accusations and says he will answer judicial questions. The national financial prosecutor’s office ordered an investigation into suspicions including embezzlement of public funds, favouritism, unlawful taking of interest, and extortion. A whistleblower status was granted to the complainant, who claims her contract was not renewed and that she faced bullying after raising concerns. The digital hub management contract was awarded to LH French Tech in July 2020.

"French investigators are probing allegations of embezzlement involving high-profile presidential candidate Edouard Philippe over the allocation of a digital hub contract in the northern port city of Le Havre where he is mayor, prosecutors have said."

"An investigation into suspicions of embezzlement of public funds, favouritism, unlawful taking of interest and extortion was ordered earlier this month, the national financial prosecutor's office told AFP on Tuesday."

"The complaint, seen by AFP, stated that the investigating magistrate would have to assess whether a pact had been concluded between the mayor and his deputy involving "political, financial and relational support in return for managing" the digital hub."

"A former senior official with the local authority has accused Philippe of possible misconduct over the awarding in 2020 of the management of a digital hub in Le Havre to an association presided by one of his deputies. Philippe, who was prime minister from 2017 to 2020, has previously rejected all accusations."

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