The political situation in Monaco has taken another dramatic turn as Philippe Mettoux, the man chosen to lead the Principality’s government, has formally declined the role just days before he was due to take office.
Mettoux, a senior French State Councillor and former legal chief at SNCF, announced his decision on Thursday, June 26, citing “internal obstacles” that he claims would prevent him from carrying out his duties effectively. His appointment by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II earlier this month was seen as an attempt to steady the government amid growing tensions within the Principality.
In a statement shared with Agence France-Presse (AFP), Mettoux criticised what he described as “opposing forces determined to maintain outdated practices and block progress.” Though he stopped short of naming names, his remarks come as Monaco faces a deepening legal and political crisis linked to former close associates of the Prince, now embroiled in corruption allegations.
The latest twist in this saga came with the indictment of Didier Linotte, Monaco’s former Supreme Court president, for influence peddling and corruption. Linotte’s arrest has reignited public scrutiny of powerful figures operating behind the scenes, including real estate tycoon Patrice Pastor, accused by some of exerting outsized influence on the Rock.
Mettoux, trained at France’s prestigious National School for the Judiciary (ENM), had previously served as a prosecutor, adviser to senior ministers including Dominique de Villepin, and later as SNCF’s legal and compliance director. His refusal to take the reins leaves Monaco’s government in limbo.
Until a new candidate is identified, Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, will continue as interim head of government — a role she has held since the death of Didier Guillaume last December.
Image courtesy of SNCF: Philippe Mettoux
