Former MoDem Secretary of State Nathalie Élimas is set to stand trial at the end of March for allegations of moral harassment against five members of her cabinet during her tenure overseeing Priority Education. The Paris prosecutor's office has confirmed that the hearing is scheduled for March 31, focusing on accusations of 'vexatious and humiliating remarks, contradictory injunctions, and criticism of professional skills,' which reportedly occurred after a brief period of favorable relations.
The allegations stem from incidents between July 2020 and March 2022, involving mainly communications advisers who worked closely with Élimas. If found guilty, she faces up to two years in prison and a fine of 30,000 euros. Specific accusations include imposing inappropriate tasks, public denigration of professional abilities, and issuing contradictory demands, leading to a hostile work environment.
The prosecution has also highlighted a pattern of unfounded criticisms regarding the personal lives and work habits of the affected cabinet members, including excessive taxi use and flexible working hours, suggesting a deliberate attempt to isolate them.
The case against Élimas follows an administrative investigation by the General Inspectorate of Higher Education and Research, which uncovered 'dysfunctions' in her office related to labor relations. This investigation resulted in a criminal inquiry by the Brigade for the Suppression of Crimes Against the Person (BRDP).
Élimas, who resigned in March 2022 amid the allegations, has not publicly commented on the upcoming trial. She previously filed a complaint for slanderous denunciation after leaving her government position. At 51 years old, she is a former teacher and was elected as a MoDem MP for Val-d'Oise in 2017.
