Mayor files defamation lawsuit
The mayor of Bastia, Gilles Simeoni, has decided to take legal action against the French magazine Marianne and its journalist Edouard Roux, accusing them of defamation. He plans to present direct quotes from the article in court to support his claim.Timing of the article
The article was published on October 25, just one day before the Senate was set to examine a constitutional law bill on Corsican autonomy. This timing has raised questions about the article's intent and potential influence on the legislative process.Content of the investigation
The investigation claimed that Gilles Simeoni falsely attributed a statement to France, calling it a "friendly country." It also accused him of concealing "radical nationalism" and using "brutal methods" to govern Corsica. These allegations were based on anonymous sources and testimonies.Allegations of intimidation
The article included quotes from anonymous witnesses who described Gilles Simeoni as someone who uses pressure and threats, both in Corsica and among mainland politicians. One witness claimed that opposing Simeoni could lead to losing subsidies and access to resources.Simeoni's response
Gilles Simeoni dismissed the article as a collection of "defamatory accusations, repeating allegations, or even pure inventions" attributed to anonymous sources. He emphasized that the article was published strategically to influence the Senate's vote on Corsican autonomy.
