The political climate is tense Dijon in the run-up to the municipal elections. Fabien Robertmunicipal councilor, announces that he has initiated an appeal against the mayor’s decision, Nathalie Koendersto withdraw its delegations. A decision that he bluntly describes as “ political ouster ».
A decision contested on substance and form
In a press release released on March 20, the elected official explains that he learned through the press of the withdrawal of his delegations “ Chevreul-Parc district and animal protection », Acted by a municipal decree dated February 25. Until then invested in his functions, Fabien Robert claims to have not been the subject of any criticism concerning his work. He therefore questions the motivations for this decision, the legitimacy of which he contests. “ I can only see in this act a measure of direct retaliation », He declares, considering that this sanction comes in a sensitive political context, a few days before the municipal election.
Suspicions linked to the electoral context
According to the municipal councilor, the temporality of this decision is not trivial. He emphasizes that the order was taken the same day as the publication of articles discussing his exchanges with other political parties, particularly around the issue of animal protection. These elements, according to him, nourish the idea of a sanction linked to its involvement in the local democratic debate, rather than to administrative considerations.
An appeal based on case law
To contest this decision, Fabien Robert relies on case law from the Council of State dating from November 14, 2012, which strictly regulates the withdrawal of delegation. This must be justified by the “ smooth running of municipal administration ».
However, the elected official points out several elements that he considers problematic:
- the absence of reproach concerning its municipal action,
- a decision taken in a particular political context,
- and an alleged attack on the freedom of expression and engagement of elected officials.
So many arguments that he develops in his gracious appeal addressed to the mayor at the beginning of the week.
Towards an administrative dispute?
At this stage, the town hall has not yet responded to this approach. In the absence of a rapid response, Fabien Robert indicates that he plans to bring the matter before the administrative court in order to obtain the annulment of the decision. He also requests the restitution of his delegations, believing that they must not be used for political purposes.
Beyond his personal situation, the elected official intends to warn about what he considers to be a deviation. “ The life of the Chevreul-Parc neighborhood and the animal cause deserve better than being treated as political policy issues “, he says. This affair could thus revive local political tensions, at a pivotal moment for democratic life in Dijon.
