Hubert Bonneau has been appointed as the director general of the national gendarmerie, after a succession battle with his predecessor, Gérald Darmanin. The President of the Republic signed the two decrees, confirming the appointment of Bonneau and Louis Laugier as the director general of the police nationale. The appointment of Bonneau and Laugier marks the end of a power struggle that began in the spring when Darmanin tried to have his preferred candidates appointed to these key positions. However, Bruno Retailleau, the Minister of Interior, ultimately prevailed in making the final decision on who would lead these important institutions.
Upon taking office in September, Retailleau was faced with the challenging task of navigating the appointment of key figures in law enforcement. He was particularly concerned about the candidacy of Alexandre Brugère, who had close ties to Darmanin and the police unions. Retailleau initiated a consultation process to carefully consider different candidates for the roles, in order to ensure that his choices aligned with his vision for security policy. This process led to the selection of Bonneau and Laugier, and the approval of President Macron.
Hubert Bonneau is a respected figure within the gendarmerie, having previously served as the head of the elite GIGN intervention group from 2014 to 2017. With a strong operational background and experience in various roles within the gendarmerie and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bonneau is expected to set strategic priorities and embody the values of the institution. His deputy, Major General André Petillot, will support him in running the organization effectively, drawing on his extensive knowledge of the gendarmerie’s operations. This appointment is particularly significant to gendarmes, as they will once again be led by one of their own officers.
The appointment of Bonneau and Laugier was approved by President Macron following a meeting with Retailleau, where he presented his shortlist for the positions. This decision was reached after thorough consideration of the candidates and discussions with various stakeholders. Both Bonneau and Laugier will play crucial roles in shaping the future of law enforcement in France and implementing the government’s security policies. Their leadership will be closely watched by the gendarmerie and police forces as they navigate the challenges of maintaining public safety and security.
Overall, the selection of Hubert Bonneau as the director general of the national gendarmerie signals a new chapter in the leadership of law enforcement agencies in France. With his strong operational background and experience in crisis management, Bonneau is well-positioned to guide the gendarmerie through current challenges and uphold its reputation for excellence. His appointment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring effective and professional law enforcement services for the citizens of France. Together with Louis Laugier as the director general of the police nationale, Bonneau will work towards strengthening security measures and maintaining public trust in the law enforcement institutions.
