Investigation Launched into Compiègne Deputy Mayor's Excessive Phone Bills
Oumar Ba, the deputy mayor of Compiègne in Oise, is currently under investigation for allegedly misusing public funds, following revelations about his exorbitant telephone bills totaling €14,777.99 between November 2020 and June 2022. The Anticor association, which focuses on transparency in public office, reported these findings to the courts, highlighting that a significant portion of these expenses—€12,690—was attributed to internet usage abroad during his unsuccessful campaign for the legislative elections in June 2022.
The investigation, confirmed by public prosecutor Guillaume Dupont, was initiated on June 27, 2024, and is ongoing. Ba's phone bills reportedly surged during his travels to Africa, where he sought to connect with voters in the ninth constituency of French citizens abroad, covering regions including Maghreb and West Africa. Despite his efforts, he garnered only 0.5% of the vote.
Financial Repercussions for Oumar Ba
In light of the investigation, the mayor of Compiègne, Philippe Marini, indicated that an agreement was reached with the municipal treasurer for Ba to progressively reimburse the excessive charges, resulting in the cessation of his deputy allowances for over a year. Christian Maury, co-referent of Anticor 60, emphasized that while municipal officials can have their phone expenses covered, Ba's usage appears to have exceeded reasonable limits tied to his official duties.
Broader Legal Issues in Compiègne
The situation surrounding Oumar Ba is not isolated, as other elected officials in Compiègne are also facing legal scrutiny. City councilor Claudine Gréhan is currently under investigation for
