Paris: French opposition parties called on Thursday for a review of Emmanuel Macron’s campaign spending after reports showed he obtained huge discounts from venues and service providers during last year’s presidential race.
Macron’s critics have seized on the revelations given his emphasis on public integrity and accountability during his campaign.
The latest came on Thursday after France Info radio reported that Macron’s campaign got 75 per cent reductions on rentals at two theatres for campaign rallies.
Both theatres are owned by Jean-Marc Dumontet, whom the report described as being close to Macron and his wife Brigitte.
For another event, the campaign rented another Paris venue, La Bellevilloise, for an evening rally at a cost of 1,200 euros ($1,400).
But France Info reported that the arts centre charged Socialist rival Benoit Hamon 4,838 euros for a comparable event.
Such rebates usually draw the attention of France’s campaign finance watchdog, the CNCCFP, since excessive discounts can be considered illicit campaign financing from corporate donors.
“Emmanuel Macron’s campaign accounts have been approved by the relevant authorities,” the Elysee Palace said in a statement. — AFP
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