HIBAPRESS
The French Public Prosecution on Wednesday demanded a fine of 7,500 euros against the mayor of the city of Béziers, Robert Ménard, in connection with his refusal in 2023 to solemnize a marriage between a French citizen and an Algerian man who was subject to the "OQTF" procedure, which mandates leaving French territory.
Ménard, in his capacity as a civil status officer, had refused to complete the marriage, justifying his stance by the man's administrative status in France.
During the trial, the prosecution asserted that an individual being under the "OQTF" procedure does not, in itself, constitute a legal reason to refuse a marriage, considering that the mayor is obliged to respect the legal rules governing marriage.
It is worth noting that the amount of 7,500 euros represents the prosecution's request and not a final judgment, as the court has not definitively ruled on the case at this stage. The file is also related to a preliminary question regarding the constitutionality of certain relevant legal provisions.
A decision on this aspect is expected to be issued on December 1, 2026.
