Eric Zemmour, if he is a presidential candidate, will have to withdraw from Figaro - France 24

Paris (AFP)

Le Figaro journalist and CNews star columnist Eric Zemmour will have to withdraw from the daily newspaper if he were to embark on the race for the Elysee Palace, ensured the direction of the newspaper at the Society of Journalists (SDJ) of Le Figaro.

During a meeting organized this week with the editorial director of Figaro Alexis Brézet and devoted to editorial questions, the SDJ reports having addressed "the situation of Eric Zemmour" in two ways, in a report including AFP got a copy on Friday.

First of all, concerning the multiple accusations of sexual assault targeting him, revealed in particular by the press, Alexis Brézet confirmed the position of the newspaper, which has so far taken no sanction against the editorialist, just like the CNews news channel which kept it on air.

Internally, "neither the management of the newspaper nor the human resources of the group, nor any of the prevention bodies provided for this purpose have been seized of any problematic elements or situation concerning Eric Zemmour," he said. highlighted.

And outside the Figaro, "there is no complaint, no open investigation, nothing other than press articles, of which a number of precedents are there to remind us that we would not know without legal risk to draw individual consequences, "he added, according to the SDJ.

Another point discussed: the question of a potential candidacy of Eric Zemmour for the presidential election.

"If Eric Zemmour expressed his intention to be a candidate, the day he crossed the line, we would take the necessary decisions. It is obvious: one cannot at the same time be a journalist for Le Figaro and a candidate for the presidential election, "assured the editorial director, according to the report.

"Things are absolutely clear between us: the day he shows his intentions, he will no longer be able to write for Le Figaro," said the official.

Nevertheless, the SDJ du Figaro notes with regard to Eric Zemmour "that the manifestations of his intentions are increasing, in particular through the testimonies of personalities who support him in this process or who have been requested by him to prepare a campaign", and 'therefore calls for "examining possible solutions" with management in order to "prevent difficulties" which could arise from this situation.

© 2021 AFP