Martine Aubry, the longtime socialist mayor of Lille, officially announced her resignation during a press conference on Thursday, March 6, 2025, marking the end of her 24-year tenure. Aubry, who led the northern French city since 2001, stated she would step down by mid-March, one year before the municipal elections set for 2026.
"The time is now to pass the baton," Aubry expressed, meeting with journalists at the Gare Saint-Sauveur. Visibly emotional, she reflected on her time as the city’s mayor, recognizing the ideal moment to transition to new leadership. "I have still energy and ideas for Lille, but the time has come to pass the hand," she added.
Aubry’s decision to resign did not come lightly, as she has been involved in Lille's politics for over three decades, adapting and overseeing the city's transformation during her time. She urged the municipal council to elect her first deputy, Arnaud Deslandes, who is 42 and has worked closely with her for over 20 years, as her successor. Aubry declared her belief in Deslandes, stating, "He knows the city very well, and he has the vision needed to become the mayor of Lille. I am convinced after one year, the Lillois will want to keep him as mayor."
Reflecting on her achievements, Aubry famously recalled how, when she took office, Lille was often considered merely the "sad capital of a sleeping region." She expressed pride at having helped transform the city, which has now become vibrant and attractive. "Lille has a new face. It is now where people want to live, a cultural capital shining with promise," she remarked during her announcement.
Having previously held the post of Minister of Employment, responsible for the landmark 35-hour work week, Aubry's political career is intertwined with significant reforms and initiatives. She indicated during her farewell address, "I am not retiring from politics. I won’t take on any new positions, but I want to continue working and participate in the revival of left-wing ideas within the Socialist Party. I love Lille too much and won’t leave my fellow citizens."
The resignation, coming at such a pivotal time, has stirred discussions about the future leadership of Lille. Several potential candidates have emerged for the upcoming municipal elections, including the senatorial ally Audrey Linkenheld and deputy Roger Vicot. Aubry acknowledged Linkenheld's role, remarking, "We need Audrey as senator for Lille. She demonstrated solidarity and collective spirit throughout our discussions," which emphasized the importance of keeping strong allies during these transitional times.
A special municipal council meeting is scheduled for March 21, where the city council is expected to elect Deslandes. The process will see militants voting to decide on the Socialist Party's official candidate for the 2026 elections on November 6, 2025. The political environment remains tense, with several factions vying for influence and authority leading up to the election.
Throughout her farewell, Aubry maintained the view of her tenure positively, emphasizing the achievements realized throughout the years leading the city. She noted, "The city is doing well; I am proud to leave the keys of both transformed and well-managed city." With final words echoing her commitment, she provided insight on her vision for the future of the Socialist Party as it navigates the current political challenges, calling for unity among left-wing factions to avoid sectarian divides. "Socialists must rethink their societal project and unite as needed; we cannot simply build the left's union if one partner believes they are above all. Each voice matters, and the echoes of dissent will not lead us to victory," she urged.
With her departure, Martine Aubry is not just exiting the mayoral office but stepping back to provide guidance within the broader leftist movement, ensuring her voice remains influential as political shifts continue to occur around her. The resignation, heralding significant change, leaves both legacy and future legacy hanging delicately over Lille’s civic consciousness, engaged with the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming political tides.