Alain Jamet, loyal companion of Jean-Marie Le Pen and co-founder of the Front National, died on November 28 at age 91 in Hérault. A former paratrooper and militant for French Algeria, he devoted his life to the far right. Despite his loyalty, his political career never advanced beyond regional councilor.
Alain Jamet, son of the man of letters Claude Jamet, grew up in a family context marked by collaboration. His father, initially a socialist and pacifist, had rallied to the Nazis from 1942 onward. At age 10, Alain Jamet discovered the visiting room at Fresnes prison in Val-de-Marne, among families of collaborators. His father was released after three months but condemned to social death, later working in the basements of Le Figaro, where his children joined him. At home on Rue Vavin in Paris's 6th arrondissement, the atmosphere was grim: support for Marshal Pétain, empty fridge, philandering father, and a jealous, acerbic stepmother.
Jamet joined the far-right ranks during the Poujade years, becoming a close associate of Jean-Marie Le Pen. A former paratrooper, he advocated for French Algeria and co-founded the Front National (FN), predecessor to the Rassemblement National. Settled in Hérault, which he had chosen as his adopted land, he remained loyal to the party until the end, hoping for the far right's return to power in France. However, his devotion was poorly rewarded; he never rose above the position of regional councilor.
His life exemplifies unwavering commitment to what was called the 'devil of the Republic,' in constant hope of seeing the far right govern France.