2026 Municipal Elections Candidate Submission Opens as Community Leader Announces Political Departure

As of January 14, 2026, candidates intending to run in the upcoming municipal elections are required to follow detailed submission procedures outlined in the official arrêté. Prospective candidates must make appointments to submit their candidacies at specified locations, dates, and times, with particular guidance available for Niort, Bressuire, and Parthenay arrondissements. The arrêté also details the process for the random draw determining electoral list placement for the renewal of municipal and community councilors. This structured approach ensures transparency and organization as communities prepare for the elections.

In parallel, Delmira Dauvilliers, president of the Pithiverais Gâtinais community, announced her retirement from politics during a ceremony held at the Atelier-musée de l’imprimerie in Malesherbes. Addressing an audience of around 150 guests, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to her colleagues, including 255 community agents, vice-presidents, security forces, agriculturalists, and merchants, recognizing their role in the community’s evolution since its 2017 creation. Dauvilliers noted that the community has transitioned from focusing primarily on projects to managing over 60% of its services, highlighting significant growth in local governance. She confirmed she will not stand in the forthcoming municipal elections but promised continued dedication to the territory.

These developments mark a critical phase in the lead-up to the 2026 municipal elections, combining procedural preparations with significant political leadership changes.