Alexis Kohler Declines Senate Testimony in Nestlé Bottled Water Scandal

Citing separation of powers, Kohler's refusal intensifies scrutiny of executive accountability as the Senate commission nears its final report.

• Alexis Kohler, Secretary General of the Élysée, has declined to testify before a Senate commission investigating Nestlé's alleged illicit bottled water treatments, citing separation of powers.
• This decision follows revelations of a February meeting between Kohler and Nestlé representatives, reportedly leading to government approval of a controversial water treatment plan.
• Transparency France criticized Kohler's refusal, warning it undermines democratic institutions and erodes public trust.
• The Senate commission, which began its inquiry in November 2024, is set to hear testimony from Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe on April 9 as a final step before its report on May 19, 2025.
• Under French law, refusal to comply with a parliamentary summons could result in imprisonment or fines, highlighting the potential legal implications of Kohler's decision.

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