Alexis Kohler Leaves the Élysée After Eight Years at the Heart of Power

Alexis Kohler, Secretary General of the Élysée and a close collaborator of Emmanuel Macron since his time at Bercy, will step down from his position in mid-April. Having worked alongside the President for over a decade, he has held the role of Secretary General of the Élysée since 2017, becoming a key figure in the administration. His departure marks a major turning point in Emmanuel Macron’s presidency.

A Loyal Confidant

In a statement to Le Figaro, Emmanuel Macron praised his dedication: “Alexis Kohler has devoted all his energy, talent, and exceptional work ethic to our political project and to the French people. He has served our country in an exemplary manner over these years. I know how much we owe him in our collective efforts, and I am certain he will continue his commitment to the Nation in other ways.”

Often described as the “Vice President” or the “twin brother” of the President, Alexis Kohler played a crucial role in managing power. His influence was so significant that he was reportedly among the first to be informed of the dissolution of the National Assembly last spring. His longevity in this strategic position is exceptional—only Jean-Louis Bianco, who served François Mitterrand for nine years, has remained in office for a comparable duration under the Fifth Republic.

A Departure Under Scrutiny

This resignation, which ends weeks of speculation, comes at a sensitive time. Alexis Kohler has been under indictment since 2022 for illegal conflict of interest in the MSC case, where he is suspected of favoring the Italo-Swiss shipping company run by his relatives. More recently, he was summoned by a Senate investigative committee regarding industrial water bottling practices after revelations about his communications with Nestlé.

According to Le Figaro, the 52-year-old Alexis Kohler is expected to join a bank following his departure. He will be replaced by Emmanuel Moulin, former Director of the Treasury and ex-chief of staff to Gabriel Attal at Matignon. This strategic shift marks the beginning of a new chapter at the top of the French government.