Former Prime Minister François Bayrou, outgoing mayor of Pau, officially announced on Sunday, January 18, his candidacy for a third term leading the Béarn city. At 74 years old and leader of the MoDem, he highlights his 12-year record, particularly in security. He will face six opponents, including Jérôme Marbot for the left-wing union, in the municipal elections on March 15 and 22.
François Bayrou, who resigned from Matignon on September 8 after a no-confidence vote by deputies, held a press conference to launch his campaign. 'When you have proven over twelve years that you have fully respected, and even beyond, the commitments you have made, then it means you will respect the commitments you will take,' he stated, emphasizing his security achievements.
The candidate's program includes promoting shared housing across generations, increased support for single mothers, and the creation of an evening school open to all. However, his time in government was overshadowed by the scandal of physical and sexual violence at the Notre-Dame-de-Bétharram high school in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
Elected in 2020 against Jérôme Marbot (PS) in the second round, Bayrou will face him again, representing the left-wing union without La France insoumise. Six declared opponents are vying for the Pau mayoralty, a city sought after by the left.
