Karim Bouamrane, the socialist mayor of Saint-Ouen (Seine-Saint-Denis), has recently gained widespread media attention following the success of the Olympic Games partially held in his town. Despite being a long-time figure in the political scene, Bouamrane, who is 51 years old, has emerged as a prominent public figure. Following the twinning of Saint-Ouen with Los Angeles, the New York Times published a long profile on him, with other foreign media outlets also offering praise. Some have even dubbed him as the “Obama von der Seine” (the Obama of the Seine), highlighting the impact of his leadership.
On August 17, Le Figaro Magazine published a new portrait of Bouamrane, where he advocates for a “coalition” and criticizes La France insoumise for polarizing the country along ethnic and religious lines. This article received enthusiastic responses from parts of the left-wing who are critical of Mélenchon’s ideology. Bouamrane has garnered support from influential figures like Claude Bartolone and Julien Dray, who see him as a rising star in French politics. Gaspard Gantzer even envisions him as a future president of France, showcasing the high regard in which Bouamrane is held.
With strong backing from prominent figures like former city minister Jean-Louis Borloo and banker Matthieu Pigasse, Bouamrane is seen as a potential candidate for higher political positions, including the presidency. His ability to bring about transformations and make his city more appealing has impressed many, including supporters from different political backgrounds. Bouamrane’s commitment to “universalist” ideals has also drawn attention from the Elysée, indicating that his profile is being closely monitored by the government.
Despite the speculation surrounding his political future, Bouamrane remains focused on his work as mayor and his vision for his community. He has expressed a distaste for being solely defined by his background, preferring to be recognized for his principles and actions. As discussions about potential candidates for prime minister continue, Bouamrane’s name is frequently mentioned as a possible contender, reflecting the interest and intrigue surrounding his rise in French politics.
Overall, Karim Bouamrane’s sudden prominence in the political landscape has sparked discussions and debates about the future of the left-wing in France. His approach to governance, focus on coalition-building, and commitment to universal values have resonated with a wide range of supporters, both in France and abroad. As he navigates this newfound attention and speculation about his political ambitions, Bouamrane continues to prioritize the needs of his constituents and work towards creating positive change in his community.
