Régine Komokoli: LFI Politician in Rennes & Ille-et-Vilaine

Rennes Deputy Marie Mesmeur of La France Insoumise (LFI) has voiced support for Régine Komokoli, a municipal councilor and departmental councilor in Ille-et-Vilaine, following the withdrawal of Komokoli’s departmental responsibilities. The decision was made by Jean-Luc Chenut, president of the Ille-et-Vilaine departmental council, after Komokoli announced her engagement with Mesmeur’s municipal campaign.

Chenut announced his decision on Friday, December 12, 2025, just twenty-four hours after Komokoli publicly declared her support for Mesmeur. According to a statement released by Chenut, the exercise of a delegated responsibility requires “loyalty and responsibility,” and must align with the overall project of the majority in the departmental council.

“When these principles are no longer verified, it is incumbent upon the president of the departmental council to draw the consequences, in the interest of the proper functioning of the collective and the coherence of public action.”

Jean-Luc Chenut, President of the Ille-et-Vilaine departmental council

Komokoli had been entrusted with responsibilities related to maternal and child protection, early childhood, and parenthood since July 2021. Despite the removal of her delegated responsibilities, she remains a member of the departmental council and is able to continue in that role.

Chenut expressed regret over the situation, stating that it stemmed from Komokoli’s own choices. “But it results from positions that fall under her sole responsibility,” he said.

A History of Advocacy

Régine Komokoli’s path to political office is notable. She was previously a migrant and experienced periods of homelessness before being elected as a departmental councilor for Ille-et-Vilaine in 2021. She is recognized as the first woman of former undocumented status to be elected in France.

In March 2025, Komokoli spoke about her journey and her commitment to feminism, emphasizing the importance of empowering women and families. She has been actively involved in advocating for the rights of women and working to improve their daily lives, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Recent Challenges and Support

Komokoli has faced increasing challenges and hostility in recent months. According to reporting from ICI Armorique on April 13, 2026, she has been the target of threats, insults, and racist abuse, including an incident where a brick was thrown at her home. She has filed a police complaint regarding these incidents.

“Since I have been elected, I have been attacked, assaulted, intimidated, and worse, now our home is being attacked, with a brick thrown at our bay window. It is a very difficult time, difficult for my daughters, my children, who are afraid, and I don’t think that political engagement should put us in danger.”

Régine Komokoli, Departmental and Municipal Councilor

Following the withdrawal of her departmental responsibilities, approximately fifty activists and migrants, along with Deputy Mesmeur, gathered to show their support for Komokoli on Thursday, December 18, 2025.

Komokoli reported receiving over 300 hateful messages within 48 hours of her election, and the attacks have continued to escalate. She has publicly denounced the violence and racism she has experienced, emphasizing the toll it takes on her family.