Ex-PM Édouard Philippe Faces Whistleblower Allegations: Misuse of Funds and Favoritism Under Investigation
June 23, 2025
The National Financial Prosecutor's Office (PNF) is currently investigating these allegations, having opened a probe in 2023 and conducted searches in Spring 2024.
Concerns have been raised about the PNF's progress, particularly in light of Philippe's potential candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections.
This latest complaint follows an earlier one filed in September 2023, which also led to an investigation by the PNF.
On June 23, 2025, a whistleblower filed a complaint in Paris against Édouard Philippe, the former Prime Minister and current mayor of Le Havre, alleging misuse of public funds and favoritism.
The complaint, lodged by lawyer Jérôme Karsenti, includes serious accusations of moral harassment, favoritism, embezzlement of public funds, illegal interest taking, and extortion against Philippe and his associates.
Among those targeted in the complaint are Philippe's associates, Stéphanie de Bazelaire, the deputy for innovation in Le Havre, and Claire-Sophie Tasias, the general director of services for the urban community.
Judith, the whistleblower, who previously served as the deputy general director of the urban community, claims she faced moral harassment after raising concerns about a public service contract.
This contract, signed in July 2020, involved a financial commitment of 2.154 million euros to LH French Tech, which has since gone bankrupt.
The contract was awarded to LH French Tech, the only organization that submitted a proposal, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Philippe has denied all accusations, suggesting that the complaint arises from a personal vendetta by Judith, whose contract was not renewed.
Judith expressed frustration over the slow progress of the investigation, claiming she has faced repercussions for her whistleblowing.
The ongoing investigation continues to analyze documents seized during the spring raids, as authorities work to uncover the truth behind these serious allegations.
Summary based on 5 sources