Olivier Faure remains at the head of the PS: agreement impossible?

Olivier Faure remains at the head of the PS: agreement impossible?

On June 14, 2025, members of the Socialist Party (PS) met in Nancy during its 81st Congress to elect a new leader. Olivier Faure was re-elected for his fourth term in office with 51.15% of the vote. He defeated Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol, the mayor of Rouen, who received 48.85% of the vote. The turnout was 25,164 voters, of which 24,809 votes were valid Franceinfo reported.

Despite this re-election, the PS remains mired in internal disputes. Faure was unable to achieve a traditional synthesis between the different currents at the congress. This was reflected in Mayer-Rossignol announcing that there was no agreement with Faure to integrate all currents into the party leadership. The party remains divided in what members are calling a “strategic dissent,” according to yahoo news.

Ecological socialism in focus

In his closing speech, Faure emphasized the need for an “ecological socialism” that combines both social and ecological issues. He was critical of the current economic system and called for changes, which Boris Vallaud supports. This also includes the concept of “démarchandization”. Faure spoke out vehemently against the CAC 40's excessive profits and criticized the perception of the Zucman tax as expropriation, such as franceinfo.

The international situation, particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip, was also discussed. Faure described the violence there as “genocide.” In a clear appeal to the government, he asked them to seek compromises because they did not have an absolute majority. Otherwise she should resign.

Unity of the Left and Outlook for the 2027 Elections

Faure called for unity among left-wing parties and emphasized the desire to win the 2027 elections together. However, he made it clear that there would be no national agreement with the La France insoumise (LFI) party for the upcoming local elections. Instead, the PS aims to make a broad appeal to all left-wing voters without carrying out any selection. According to yahoo news, this attitude is intended to contribute to diversity within the party executive, as long as the results of the congress are respected.

Finally, the congress ended with the singing of “Bella ciao” and “L’internationale” together, symbolizing the solidarity and cohesion of the delegates, even if many questions remain unanswered internally.