The Race for Paris: Four Ecologist Candidates Step Forward

Introduction: A New Era for Parisian Politics

The Parisian political landscape is brimming with anticipation as four prominent ecological candidates have officially thrown their hats into the ring for the 2026 municipal elections. David Belliard, Anne-Claire Boux, Fatoumata Koné, and Aminata Niakaté—each a respected figure within the Parisian Ecologists section—have been validated as candidates for the upcoming race. These elections mark a pivotal moment for the city, with issues such as environmental sustainability, social inequality, and urban development taking center stage. The candidates will compete in an electronic primary vote, scheduled for March 14-16 and March 21-23, a process that reflects the growing diversity and complexity of Parisian politics.

David Belliard: A Veteran of Parisian Politics

David Belliard, a seasoned politician and ecologist, has been a member of the Paris Council since 2014 and has served as an assistant to Mayor Anne Hidalgo since 2020. At 46, he has already made significant strides in shaping the city’s environmental and social policies. Belliard’s career began in activism, notably as an LGBT+ advocate and a journalist for Economic Alternatives. He later transitioned into politics, earning a reputation for his commitment to progressive causes. In the 2020 municipal elections, he secured 10.8% of the vote in the first round, demonstrating his appeal as an environmental candidate. Belliard is now championing a “Great social revolution,” advocating for a break from ultraliberal policies and the restoration of public services. His leadership in managing Paris’s social housing portfolio has further solidified his credentials as a pragmatic and visionary leader.

Anne-Claire Boux: From Activism to City Policy

Anne-Claire Boux, a 37-year-old ecologist and former Attac and Greenpeace activist, has rapidly risen through the ranks of Parisian politics. Elected to the Paris Council in 2020, she has since served as an assistant to the mayor, focusing on city policy and health initiatives. Her dedication to environmental health was evident in the Paris Environmental Health Plan, launched in November 2024, which aims to protect residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women, from pollution. Boux’s background as an engineer and her experience managing a maritime wind farm project off Saint-Nazaire highlight her unique blend of technical expertise and political acumen. She is particularly interested in bridging ecological transformation with social equity, a narrative that resonates deeply with Parisians seeking sustainable and inclusive solutions for their city.

Fatoumata Koné: The Ecologist Group President

Fatoumata Koné, a 43-year-old councilor and president of the ecological group in the Paris Council since 2020, brings a fresh perspective to the race. Representing the 19th arrondissement since 2014, she has consistently advocated for greater citizen involvement in urban decision-making. Koné’s critique of Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s governance—acknowledging its achievements but deeming it “not satisfactory”—underscores her commitment to accountability and transparency. Born in Paris and formerly employed in the private sector, she believes the city is ready for its first Black and ecologist mayor. Her platform emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and participatory approach to urban development, reflecting her deep understanding of the challenges faced by Parisians.

Aminata Niakaté: The Quiet yet Determined Spokesperson

Aminata Niakaté, a 43-year-old spokesperson for the Ecologists since 2022, is the most low-key of the four candidates, yet her extensive political experience and unwavering dedication to ecological causes make her a formidable contender. First elected to the Paris Council in 2020, she has also served as an opposition councilor in Vitry-sur-Seine. Niakaté’s legal background in business and tax law, coupled with her roles in the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council and the National Commission for Data Protection, underscores her expertise in policy and governance. Her personal journey, which included leaving Paris due to housing challenges, has instilled in her a deep commitment to creating a city that is “green, affordable, and accessible to all.”

The Future of Paris Hangs in the Balance

As the 2026 municipal elections approach, Paris stands at a crossroads. The four ecologist candidates—David Belliard, Anne-Claire Boux, Fatoumata Koné, and Aminata Niakaté— EACH bring unique strengths to the table, reflecting the diversity and complexity of the city they hope to lead. While Yannick Jadot’s decision to sit out the primary has stirred debate, the candidates’ shared commitment to left-wing unity and environmental action offers hope for a cohesive and impactful campaign. The stakes are high, but one thing is certain: the eventual winner will inherit a city hungry for change, ready to embrace a new chapter in its history.