In the lead-up to the municipal elections in Marseille, the Radical Party of the Left (PRG) has announced its withdrawal from the 'Printemps marseillais', a leftist coalition led by the incumbent mayor Benoît Payan, who is seeking re-election. This decision comes amid rising tensions within the coalition as the PRG accuses Payan of forming closer ties with La France insoumise (LFI), a party that has a distinctly different political agenda and philosophy.

The PRG expressed its dissatisfaction through a public statement, highlighting a lack of communication and consultation with the other coalition members regarding these developments. They pointed out that notable activists have been transitioning from LFI to the Printemps marseillais, indicating a potential ideological shift that the PRG does not support. This schism within the coalition could have significant repercussions on Payan's mayoral campaign, just weeks before the election, as the left seeks to present a united front.

Payan's challenge now is to address the PRG's concerns and maintain coalition integrity while also appealing to voters who may be skeptical of an alliance with LFI. The exit of the PRG might weaken the coalition’s chances in the election, raising questions about the broader implications for leftist unity in Marseille and the city's political future. As the election date draws closer, how Payan navigates these internal conflicts will be critical to his re-election efforts.