MediaPost reported Vincent Bolloré will finally stand trial on political corruption charges related to allegedly bribing politicians in Africa over 15 years ago.
Bolloré is accused of delivering discounted services via Havas to two presidential contenders in Togo and Guinea—helping them win elections—in exchange for shipping port contracts.
Oddly enough, the scenario could represent a rare and unique DEIBA+ initiative for the White holding company.
No word yet if Bolloré will appoint one of his sons to make court appearances in his place.
Vincent Bolloré To Stand Trial On Political Corruption Charges
By Steve McClellan
Bolloré Group controlling shareholder Vincent Bolloré will stand trial on corruption charges related to election campaigns in Togo and Guinea from 2009 to 2011, according to Reuters which cited a statement from the French financial prosecutor’s office on Thursday.
Bolloré was formally arrested in 2018 when authorities were looking into allegations that Bolloré provided discounted communications services via Havas to two African country presidential contenders (both won) in exchange for contracts to run shipping port concessions.
While Vincent Bolloré stepped down as Chairman and CEO at Bolloré Group in 2022, he is said to remain a major influence at the firm through his control of an entity called Financière de l’Odet, the largest shareholder of the group.
His son Cyrille succeeded him as Chairman and CEO at Bolloré Group. Entertainment firm Vivendi and ad holding company Havas, which Bolloré Group has controlling stakes in, are both headed by another son, Yannick Bolloré.
Reuters reported that two other persons are co-defendants in the case, including Gilles Alix, a former board member of Vivendi, and Jean-Philippe Dorent, who is currently head of Havas International Consulting, which provides reputation management and related services.
The trial is scheduled to start in December, according to reports.
Representatives from Havas and Bolloré had not responded to requests for comment by deadline.
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