Political Leaders Warn of Drug Trafficking Threats Amid Rising Cocaine Use and 2026 Municipal Elections

The issue of drug trafficking and its societal impact has become a critical concern in France, especially as the 2026 municipal elections approach. Political figures have voiced increasing alarm about the growing prevalence of cocaine use across social classes and the potential influence of narcotraffickers on election integrity.

Following the recent death of Mehdi Kessaci in Marseille, who was active against drug trafficking, politicians renewed their criticism of cocaine consumption habits, particularly among the urban bourgeoisie. David Lisnard, President of the Association of Mayors of France and Mayor of Cannes, harshly condemned cocaine use among affluent circles, stating, “When one uses cocaine, they are responsible for the death of Mehdi Kessaci!” President Emmanuel Macron also highlighted the paradox wherein urban wealthy individuals finance drug traffickers while publicly expressing concern over drug-related violence.

Cocaine use has increased significantly over the past decade, with nearly 10% of French adults having tried the drug at least once. The decline in cocaine prices and its growing normalization in party scenes have contributed to this rise, contrasting starkly with the violence faced in poorer neighborhoods where trafficking occurs. In 2022, France intercepted a record 27.7 tons of cocaine, underlining the scale of the problem.

Simultaneously, fears about narcotrafficker intimidation in the upcoming municipal elections have been raised by Christian Charpy, president of the Commission nationale des comptes de campagne et des financements politiques. With 64% of the French public worried about safety amid rising drug trade issues and over 70% feeling judicial sentences are too lenient, there is widespread demand for tougher action. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has called for the extradition of 15 French drug traffickers from the UAE, signaling government efforts to tackle the crisis.

Meanwhile, investigations continue into threats made against judges, including by far-right influencer Baptiste Marchais, illustrating the tense environment surrounding drug-related criminal and political dynamics. National Rally deputy Philippe Ballard criticized the government’s delayed responses, stressing urgent measures are necessary to counter drug trafficking's destabilizing effects.

The political discourse reveals a stark duality in cocaine's social perception: seen as a party drug among the affluent yet a driver of violence in vulnerable communities. This complex challenge threatens public safety and election integrity, demanding coordinated and effective governmental responses ahead of the 2026 municipal contests.