After months of speculation, HSH Prince Albert officially announced the appointment of Samuel Vuelta Simon, the current public prosecutor of Toulouse, as the new Secretary of State for Justice. Vuelta Simon will succeed Sylvie Petit-Leclair, whose departure was confirmed in a press release from the Prince’s Palace on Friday, effective from September 16.
Petit-Leclair, who has served since June 2022, will leave her post earlier than initially expected, following months of tension with the Prince’s new advisors. Prince Albert’s office stated that Vuelta Simon, known for his expertise in economic and financial delinquency, would bring a “strategic vision” to his new role, with an emphasis on enhancing the efficiency, independence, and quality of the Monegasque judicial system.
Vuelta Simon’s credentials are impressive. He has built a diverse career over three decades, holding key positions across various French jurisdictions. His experience includes roles as an investigating judge, a liaison magistrate in Madrid, deputy director of the National School of the Judiciary, and public prosecutor in Bayonne, where he was involved in efforts against organized crime and the surrender of ETA members. More recently, he co-directed the National Anti-Narcotics Office, bringing his leadership skills to combat drug trafficking.
Raised in France after emigrating from a small village in Galicia, Vuelta Simon’s unique journey has shaped his career, marked by a humble start and a rise through the ranks of the French judiciary. Reflecting on his career, he once admitted to having “imposter syndrome,” frequently wondering if he was “up to par” despite his many accomplishments.
The Prince’s Palace acknowledged his ability to lead teams and implement structural reforms, highlighting that his appointment would strengthen Monaco’s judicial landscape. While welcoming Vuelta Simon, the Palace also extended gratitude to Petit-Leclair for her contributions during her tenure as head of the Directorate of Judicial Services.
Read also: Secretary of State for Justice Sylvie Petit-Leclair challenges dismissal in Court
Featured image by Jack Brodie
