Jean-Pierre Berger Elected Mayor of Saint-Étienne After Conviction of Predecessor Gaël Perdriau

On December 11, 2025, Jean-Pierre Berger was elected mayor of Saint-Étienne to serve until the upcoming municipal elections in March. This election follows the scandal and subsequent conviction of the former mayor, Gaël Perdriau, who was sentenced to four years in prison and five years of political ineligibility for blackmail involving an intimate video. Berger secured the position with 31 out of 43 votes during an extraordinary municipal council meeting, defeating Nicole Peycelon of the Les Républicains party, who received 12 votes. Notably, the left-wing opposition did not propose any candidate.

At 83, Berger, a center-right politician active in local politics since 2014, stressed his intention to maintain continuity in the city's governance. Meanwhile, Perdriau continues to deny any involvement in the blackmail scheme and is appealing the conviction. His lawyers plan to request his release at the time of sentencing, arguing he does not meet the criteria for incarceration. Details about the exact timing of his imprisonment are expected soon.

This mayoral transition marks a significant moment for Saint-Étienne’s political landscape, following a high-profile scandal that has drawn considerable public attention. Berger's election aims to restore stability and leadership after the turbulent period under Perdriau's administration.