Jean-François Achilli, former host of the show The Informed on France Info, spoke in Le Figaro Magazine for the first time since his dismissal on April 29. This decision was taken following an article in Le Monde which accused him of having participated in a book project with Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally (RN). Achilli returns to the circumstances of his departure and the accusations brought against him.
A Non-Existing Collaboration
Achilli claims to have never formally collaborated with Bardella, specifying that no book saw the light of day, no contract was signed, and no remuneration was received. He points out that Bardella had approached Achilli after reading his essay co-written with Charles Pasqua, but that their discussions did not result in a concrete project. For Achilli, there is therefore no “conflict of interest”, and he considers his dismissal as a political decision.
Charges and Defense
The director of France Info had justified the dismissal by asserting that Achilli had “corrected the proofs” of Bardella's book, which would have constituted collaboration with a political “strategy of conquest”. Achilli disputes these assertions, specifying that he only took a look at drafts, without ever correcting proofs.
Journalism and Neutrality
Achilli defends his journalistic integrity, claiming to have never engaged in political proselytizing during his years of service. He underlines the importance of journalistic curiosity and the need to understand the motivations of political figures, including those of the RN, without adhering to their ideas.
Reaction of the SDJ and Accusations of Mediatraining
The Society of Journalists (SDJ) of Radio France did not support Achilli, unlike other colleagues who made controversial statements. Achilli sees this as a sign of the current partisan nature of the Radio France editorial staff. In addition, he refutes accusations of undeclared media training, which he considers to be an attempt to tarnish his image.
Legal Procedure and Personal Reflections
On a legal level, Achilli decided to bring the matter before the industrial tribunal. He also criticizes what he perceives as an ideological drift at Radio France, highlighting a lack of neutrality and openness in the coverage of certain subjects, notably the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In conclusion, Jean-François Achilli defends his position vigorously, denouncing injustice and a lack of support from his former colleagues and the management of France Info. His case raises questions about neutrality and ideological orientation within French public media.
