French police question former honours chief over alleged bribery
Former Legion of Honour grand chancellor Benoît Puga was questioned in an investigation into possible corruption in France’s national honours system. Authorities are examining whether he helped nominees obtain decorations in exchange for hospitality, business opportunities or money; Puga denies wrongdoing.
French police have questioned former General Chancellor of the Legion of Honour Benoît Puga as part of an investigation into alleged bribery surrounding France’s highest national decoration. Puga was taken into custody on September 22 and released the following evening, according to French media reports cited by France 24. He led the body responsible for the Legion of Honour from 2016 to 2023.
A judicial source said investigators were examining whether Puga intervened to help members of businessman and former senator Jean-Pierre Bansard’s family or professional circle receive honours during that period. The inquiry is examining possible corruption, influence peddling and illegal conflicts of interest. Allegations reported by Mediapart include expensive meals, holidays in Corsica and business opportunities for Puga’s son.
Bansard, who died in 2024, and Puga have denied wrongdoing. Bansard’s children and at least nine associates received either the Legion of Honour or the National Order of Merit, according to the report. Police have searched homes linked to Puga and Bansard, as well as Bansard’s business and political offices.
Puga’s wife, a restaurant owner, a former Grand Chancellery member and businessman Julien Renault were also questioned, according to French media. The Legion of Honour is awarded for outstanding service to France, with final approval for honours resting with the president. The investigation has not established that any offence was committed.
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