Hollande: The contest for succession has not begun

From lefigaro.fr

The day following the second round of legislative elections, one question splits the Socialist Party: when must François Hollande leave his post?

The succession race is not "open". Whereas Ségolène Royal has announced her intention to constest the position of First Secretary, François Hollande has dotted the i's on Monday calling on the various candidates "to respect the rhythms and reckonings". In other words, no succession is expected to be seen before the convention he intends to convoke "the day following" the municipal elections of 2008. François Hollande will therefore put to the party's national council on Saturday a working calendar, notably fixing a date for the convention. Stéphane Le Foll, Hollande's right hand man, said on Monday the calendar will be put to a vote.

"We don't need a leadership battle yet, an appointment of one us, that will come. We need to understand everything, watch everything, think of everything and I hope to tomorrow suggest a new deal" said First Secretary Hollande. The Socialist Party's convention, which will be held "the day following" the March 2008 municipal election, "will come after a process of reform" he added.