Martinique's Serge Letchimy, convicted in Paris on misuse of funds.

Serge Letchimy, president of the Collectivité Territoriale de Martinique, remains in office and free despite a recent conviction in Paris for a criminal offense. On 19 February 2026, a French court sentenced the longtime Martinican leader to 18 months in prison, but the term was suspended, meaning he will not serve jail time unless he reoffends or the ruling is upheld and modified.

The court also imposed a €150,000 fine and a five-year ban from holding public office.

Letchimy has formally appealed the decision, allowing him to continue exercising his duties while the case moves through the judicial process. A prominent political figure in Martinique for more than two decades, he previously served as mayor of Fort-de-France and as a member of the French National Assembly. His appeal is expected to determine whether the ineligibility ruling ultimately takes effect.

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