French presidential candidate Édouard Philippe designated 'assisted witness' in embezzlement case
Oct 31, 2026
The former prime minister of France, Edouard Philippe,
has been given assisted witness status
in an investigation into the alleged misuse
of public funds at the Le Havre Metropolitan Authority.
This means, while he is involved in the judicial investigation,
he has not been formally charged or placed under formal investigation.
Philippe is the current mayor of Le Havre.
A port city on the northern coast of France
and a candidate for next year's presidential election
for his Horizons party.
He appeared before two financial investigating judges on Thursday.
The investigation is looking into whether Philippe
and others made a deal involving political,
financial and networking support in return
for the management of an innovation hub in the region.
His lawyer told AFP this confirms there
is nothing to reproach him for in this case.
This status can change as a case progresses
and as new evidence emerges.