The article paints a vibrant picture of Karim Bouamrane, the charismatic mayor of Saint-Ouen, a town of 53,000 residents as of 2022. Known for his bold communication style, Bouamrane doesn’t shy away from the spotlight, often comparing his approach to that of a mayor governing a city of a million. His office, located on the ground floor of the town hall, serves as the backdrop for his dynamic interactions with the press, where he openly discusses his ambitions and ideals. While he never explicitly mentions his presidential aspirations, the topic subtly surfaces in conversations, hinting at a future in higher office. For instance, when discussing his wife, he jokingly remarks, “My wife won’t be handling the Yellow Pieces,” a playful reference to the French political circle, suggesting a life beyond his current role.
Bouamrane’s journey into the limelight began in April 2023, on the eve of the Paris Olympics. The New York Times published a flattering profile, portrays him in a manner reminiscent of an American biopic. The article highlights his activism and ambition, which have restored pride among his constituents. Buoyed by this coverage, Bouamrane proudly declares, “After Los Angeles, Barcelona, Beijing, London, Sydney, now there’s Saint-Ouen,” showcasing his vision for his town’s global relevance. The article’s translation was quickly posted on the town hall’s website, a testament to the mayor’s enthusiasm for his growing reputation.
By August, Bouamrane’s international profile had grown further. German newspaper Welt dubbed him the “Obama of the Seine,” a comparison he appeared to embrace, despite his humble acknowledgment of their shared trait of being left-handed. He playfully dismissed the comparison, saying, “The only thing I have in common with Barack Obama is that we’re both left-handed,” during a September interview on Franceinfo. This lighthearted response belied his growing political ambitions, which were further fueled when he announced the launch of his political movement in October. The media frenzy surrounding his announcement cemented his status as a rising star in French politics.
Bouamrane’s appeal to the media is undeniable. His polished image, complete with three-piece suits and an ageless charm, makes him a “good client” for journalists. His rags-to-riches story, having grown up in a modest apartment without modern amenities in the Cordon district of Saint-Ouen, adds depth to his persona. The New York Times highlighted his parents’ Moroccan heritage and his humble beginnings, painting him as a self-made man. His command of multiple languages, including Latin, which he often uses to quote legal maxims like “Dura lex, sed lex” (The law is harsh, but it is the law), further solidifies his intellectual image, even if some council members find it over the top.
Despite his polished image, Bouamrane’s communication style is often described as excessive, a trait he freely admits. “I communicate as if I were running a city of a million,” he remarks with a shrug. This approach has drawn both admiration and criticism, but it undeniably keeps him in the public eye. His frequent use of English catchphrases and his active presence on social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) suggest a modern, interconnected leader who understands the importance of personal branding in contemporary politics.
As Bouamrane’s political movement gains momentum, speculation about his future grows. His refusal to explicitly discuss the presidency only fuels the rumors, leaving many to wonder if this charismatic mayor will take the leap to higher office. For now, he continues to bask in the media spotlight, embracing his role as a rising political star. Whether he aspires to the Élysée Palace or not, Karim Bouamrane has undeniably carved out a unique place for himself in French politics, blending humor, ambition, and a refreshing candor that captivates audiences and keeps them guessing about what’s next.
