- Former French Interior Minister Daniel Vaillant, who served under Lionel Jospin from 2000 to 2002, is facing a significant lifestyle change following the removal of his official driver.
- At 76 years old, Vaillant describes himself as 'not in good health' and admits he has not driven a car since leaving the Ministry of the Interior (Beauvau) 25 years ago.
- The decision to revoke his chauffeur was made by current Minister Sébastien Lecornu.
- Vaillant has publicly questioned whether this move represents a 'political choice' rather than a purely administrative one.
Quick Summary
Former French Interior Minister Daniel Vaillant has been stripped of his official driver, a decision made by current minister Sébastien Lecornu. At 76 years old, Vaillant describes himself as 'not in good health' and admits he has not driven a car since leaving the Ministry of the Interior, known as Beauvau, 25 years ago.
Vaillant, who served as Interior Minister under Prime Minister Lionel Jospin from 2000 to 2002, suspects the decision may be a 'political choice.' This change forces the former minister to adjust to a new reality without the transport privileges he has held since his departure from office.
The Decision and the Reaction
The removal of Daniel Vaillant's official driver has sparked a reaction from the former minister himself. The decision was executed by Sébastien Lecornu, the current Minister of the Interior. Vaillant has expressed doubts regarding the motivation behind the move.
When asked about the situation, Vaillant questioned if the action was a «choix politique» or political choice. This suggests a belief that the decision may be targeted rather than a standard administrative review of privileges for former officials.
«choix politique»— Daniel Vaillant, Former Interior Minister
A 25-Year Habit Broken
The loss of the driver represents a major disruption to Daniel Vaillant's daily routine. The former minister has not operated a vehicle himself since his tenure at Beauvau ended a quarter of a century ago.
Vaillant, now 76, admits that his physical condition is a factor in his life. He stated that he is «Pas en bonne santé», or not in good health, making the lack of a driver a significant logistical and personal challenge.
Context of the Change
Daniel Vaillant served as the Minister of the Interior during the government of Lionel Jospin. His tenure lasted from 2000 until 2002. The privileges associated with such high-level office are often maintained for life, making the current revocation notable.
Vaillant referred to the situation as a «changement de vie» or change of life. This highlights the significant impact that the decision by Sébastien Lecornu has had on the former minister's personal autonomy and daily existence.
"«Pas en bonne santé»"
— Daniel Vaillant, Former Interior Minister
"«changement de vie»"
— Daniel Vaillant, Former Interior Minister
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Daniel Vaillant lose his driver?
Current Interior Minister Sébastien Lecornu made the decision to remove Daniel Vaillant's official driver. Vaillant suspects it may be a political choice.
Can Daniel Vaillant drive himself?
No, Daniel Vaillant stated that he has not driven a car since he left the Ministry of the Interior 25 years ago.
What is Daniel Vaillant's current health status?
Daniel Vaillant, 76, described himself as 'not in good health' (Pas en bonne santé).




