Élysée Palace Searched in Pantheon Ceremony Contract Probe

Le Figaro reports on a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the awarding of contracts for the prestigious Pantheon ceremonies. A search was carried out at the Élysée Palace on May 21, marking a critical step in the probe initiated in October 2025. This judicial inquiry is scrutinizing the conditions under which public contracts were allocated by the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN) for these solemn state events.

The investigation, which includes allegations of favoritism, illicit enrichment, corruption, and influence peddling, has already seen investigators clash with the presidency. On April 14, access to the Élysée was initially denied, with officials invoking the "inviolability" of presidential premises, a stance based on Article 67 of the Constitution. This article generally shields the president from accountability for acts performed in their official capacity during their term.

“

Search operations took place on May 21 in Élysée premises, as part of the judicial inquiry targeting, in particular, the conditions for awarding certain public contracts related to the organization of Pantheon ceremonies by the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN).

This latest development underscores the seriousness with which the Parquet national financier (PNF) is pursuing the case. The PNF confirmed the search operations, which followed "institutional exchanges" to facilitate their execution. The investigation is particularly focused on the choice of a company, Shortcut Events, to organize the Pantheon ceremonies for illustrious figures over the past 22 years. Reports suggest these ceremonies were each billed to the state at approximately 2 million euros, raising questions about the value and transparency of these contracts.

From a French perspective, the Élysée's initial resistance and subsequent cooperation, albeit under judicial pressure, highlight the delicate balance between presidential authority and the rule of law. While the investigation targets specific contracts and potential misconduct, the fact that it reaches the highest levels of the state is a testament to the French judicial system's independence. The public will be watching closely to see how this probe unfolds, as it touches upon the integrity of state functions and the use of public funds for national commemorations.

“

An analysis according to which Article 67 of the Constitution implies the inviolability of premises attached to the Presidency of the Republic.