Vaulx-en-Velin: Lahmar’s Mandate Dilemma – Mayor or Deputy?
The recent municipal elections in Vaulx-en-Velin have thrust Abdelkader Lahmar, a prominent figure from La France Insoumise, into a spotlight of political decision-making. Having secured the mayoralty of this commune north of Lyon, Lahmar now faces a critical choice: to embrace the mayoral office or to continue serving as a deputy for the 7th constituency of the Rhône. This dilemma, rooted in French law prohibiting the cumulation of two executive mandates, has sparked intense debate and speculation within the local political landscape.
Lahmar’s victory, which saw his list triumph, has positioned him as the designated mayor for Vaulx-en-Velin. However, his existing role as a parliamentary deputy presents a significant hurdle. The law dictates that he cannot hold both executive positions simultaneously. This forces a choice that will undoubtedly impact his political career and the expectations of the 5,369 Vaudais who voted for him, hoping for a fresh start after the previous administration.
A Choice Laden with Consequences
This isn’t merely a procedural matter; it’s a decision fraught with political and social implications. Lahmar’s mandate has already been marked by controversy, including accusations of intimidation and threats from his supporters against the outgoing mayor, Hélène Geoffroy. Renouncing the mayoralty to remain a parliamentary deputy risks alienating his voter base, who entrusted him with the city’s leadership. On the other hand, accepting the mayoral role means relinquishing a more financially lucrative position as a deputy.
From a purely financial perspective, the disparity is clear. A deputy’s net indemnity stands at approximately €5,841.03, supplemented by a residence allowance of €174.04 and a function allowance of €1,498.66. In contrast, the mayoral indemnity for Vaulx-en-Velin is estimated at around €3,500 net per month. This significant difference could sway Lahmar’s decision, leading him to either decline the mayoral post this weekend or accept it with the intention of resigning within the month to retain his parliamentary seat.
Arbitrating Conflicting Interests
Despite the financial allure of the deputy’s role, Lahmar embodies the political aspirations of a majority of Vaudais voters. His fate, however, is also tied to potential appeals that may be filed by Christine Bertin and Hélène Geoffroy, which could challenge the election results. Should his victory be confirmed by the courts, the temptation to prioritize his deputy mandate might become overwhelming.
The question of succession also looms large. Should Lahmar choose to step down as mayor, the process of designating a replacement remains unclear, promising animated debates within the municipal council. His parliamentary substitute, Élise Chabin, would be the first in line to potentially succeed him as deputy. This scenario highlights the intricate web of political alliances and individual ambitions at play.
Precedents and Future Directions
Lahmar’s predicament is not unique within La France Insoumise. Another LFI deputy from the agglomeration, Idir Boumertit, has already made his decision: he will become mayor and transfer his deputy mandate to his substitute, Gisèle Putoud. This precedent offers a potential roadmap for Lahmar, though each political context carries its own nuances.
The choice facing Abdelkader Lahmar is more than a personal one; it’s a test of political commitment, a reflection of the challenges inherent in balancing local and national mandates, and a moment that will undoubtedly shape the political future of Vaulx-en-Velin. The city, having voted for change, now awaits its leader’s decision, which will be announced tomorrow, Saturday.
