In brief
French Prime Minister François Bayrou’s credibility is crumbling as he navigates a parliamentary inquiry into alleged historical abuse at a Catholic school connected to him.
In a tense parliamentary hearing on Wednesday, French Prime Minister François Bayrou defended himself against intense scrutiny regarding a sexual violence inquiry tied to the Notre-Dame de Bétharram school, where he has personal connections. Through a series of legal complaints, more than 200 accusations of physical abuse, sexual assault, and rape committed by priests and staff at the school from 1957 to 2004 have come to light. Despite the mounting concerns, Bayrou insisted that he was not aware of these incidents until they were reported in the media.His testimony raised eyebrows as it contrasted with a previous statement made to the National Assembly in February when he stated, “I have evidently never, never ever, been informed of anything when it comes to violence, let alone sexual violence.” The pressure on Bayrou has intensified, particularly after his daughter, Hélène Perlant, disclosed to Paris Match that she had been assaulted by a priest associated with the school during a summer camp when she was 14, a revelation she chose not to share with her father.During the inquiry, the atmosphere was charged with interruptions and heated exchanges, as Bayrou, who is also the mayor of Pau—near the school—dismissed the allegations as part of a political conspiracy aimed at discrediting him. His past as France's education minister from 1993 to 1997 came under renewed examination, provoking questions about his role and responsibilities during that time.The inquiry into the allegations against the school continues, with calls for accountability echoing throughout the political landscape. As the situation evolves, Bayrou's future in office remains uncertain, amplified by a growing public skepticism towards his narrative and the revelations surfacing from the inquiry.
