Ecologists are gearing up for their congress on April 26-27, where a new national secretary will be elected, influencing the party’s strategy for upcoming municipal and presidential elections. Marine Tondelier, the incumbent, faces challenges from Karima Delli, Florentin Letissier, and Harmonie Lecerf Meunier, each presenting distinct visions for the party’s future. The competition among these candidates reflects the need for a united front in addressing ecological issues while navigating internal criticisms and evolving electoral landscapes.
Upcoming Congress for Ecologists: A Pivotal Moment
As the Ecologists gear up for their congress, set to take place on April 26 and 27, they are poised to elect a new national secretary. This critical event will not only determine leadership but also shape the party’s political strategy as they prepare for significant upcoming elections, including the municipal elections in 2026 and the presidential elections in 2027. Marine Tondelier, who has emerged as a prominent figure on the left during the recent early legislative elections, is vying to retain her position. However, she faces stiff competition from three other candidates.
Meet the Candidates: A Closer Look
Marine Tondelier
Elected as the party leader in 2022, Tondelier is currently the frontrunner, boasting the backing of over 1,200 notable figures, including former presidential candidates and several mayors from ecologist-run cities. Her tenure has been marked by increased visibility for the party and efforts to forge alliances with other left-leaning groups through the New Popular Front. Nevertheless, she must navigate criticism regarding her management style and the challenges arising from her alliance with La France insoumise, especially after the party’s lackluster performance in the last European elections.
Additionally, her predecessor, Julien Bayou, who faced serious allegations but was later cleared, has voiced discontent over the current leadership’s approach, citing a lack of decisiveness. Compounding her challenges, Tondelier’s opponents at the congress have raised concerns about newly altered electoral rules that may hinder their candidacy efforts.
Karima Delli
Delli, a former Member of the European Parliament and Tondelier’s main challenger, emphasizes the need for ecology to reclaim its importance amidst pressure from both the PS and LFI. At 45, she advocates for a more robust approach to environmental issues, equating the fight for ecology with class struggle. She critiques Tondelier’s track record, noting that a green image should not overshadow electoral losses, highlighting her own experience as an MEP from 2009 to 2024.
Florentin Letissier
At 39, Letissier serves as an economics professor and deputy mayor of Paris, where he oversees solidarity and circular economy initiatives. He champions a “government ecology” focused on practical solutions rather than theoretical debates. His campaign is bolstered by support from several deputies, marking him as a candidate with a vision for actionable change.
Harmonie Lecerf Meunier
The youngest candidate at 36, Lecerf Meunier is the deputy mayor of Bordeaux and represents the Radicalement Vôtre collective. She brings a unique perspective, advocating for a leftist ecology that is socially conscious and inclusive. Highlighting the importance of a united left, she calls for collaboration with marginalized communities rather than speaking on their behalf. Her manifesto emphasizes a revolutionary approach to addressing the needs of those from popular backgrounds.
As the Ecologists prepare for their pivotal congress, the competition among these four candidates promises to shape the party’s future direction and its impact on forthcoming elections.