Court rejects election appeal

The administrative court in Nîmes, France, ruled on October 11 that an appeal to cancel the municipal elections in Avignon had no grounds. The appeal was filed by David Fournier, a socialist candidate who lost the election to current mayor Olivier Galzi.

Irregularities claimed by Fournier

Fournier’s appeal, submitted in March 2026, claimed "serious irregularities" during the election campaign. These included alleged propaganda on social media and posters that criticized the socialist and left-wing alliance, such as one stating "the far left kills - PS-LFI accomplices."

Court dismisses claims

The court found Fournier’s arguments about "serious irregularities" difficult to accept. It noted the significant 700-vote gap between Fournier and Galzi, suggesting that any alleged irregularities did not significantly affect the election outcome.

Fournier accepts the decision

Fournier acknowledged that the court’s decision was not unexpected. He emphasized that the appeal’s goal was to highlight the irregularities, which he plans to continue addressing as part of his opposition role.

Galzi calls for unity

Mayor Olivier Galzi responded to the ruling by urging defeated candidates to accept their loss and work constructively. He encouraged them to focus on practical solutions for the city rather than ideological divisions.