Activist Amine Kessaci Takes on Drug Trafficking in Marseille Elections

Marseille, France's second-largest city, has long been a focal point for drug trafficking, particularly cocaine. The city’s impoverished neighborhoods, such as Frais Vallon, are heavily influenced by drug gangs, leading to a significant rise in violence. In 2024, there were 110 drug-related homicides across France, with Marseille being a notable contributor to this statistic. Activist Amine Kessaci, who has lost two brothers to gang violence, is now campaigning for municipal elections on an anti-drug platform.

The Independent

At just 22 years old, Kessaci has emerged as a prominent voice against drug-related violence. He founded the non-profit group Conscience to support families affected by drug crime and is running on the list of Marseille's outgoing left-wing mayor, Benoît Payan. Kessaci's campaign is driven by personal tragedy; he buried his older brother, Brahim, in 2020, and more recently, his younger brother, Mehdi, who was killed in a suspected gang-related hit. Despite facing death threats and requiring police protection, Kessaci remains committed to his cause. He emphasizes the need for grassroots solutions to combat the influence of drug traffickers, whom he refers to as part of a "narcocracy."

The Independent

Kessaci advocates for a multi-faceted approach to tackle drug trafficking in Marseille. He proposes the establishment of locally based police forces to build trust within communities and combat the intimidation tactics employed by drug gangs. His plans include doubling the police presence in the city to 1,600 officers and enhancing living conditions in impoverished neighborhoods through education, job training, and infrastructure improvements. Kessaci believes that by addressing the root causes of drug trafficking, such as poverty and lack of opportunity, the cycle of violence can be broken.

The Independent

While Kessaci's proposals have garnered support, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of increased policing in addressing the deeper issues of drug trafficking. Critics argue that without significant investment in community services and economic opportunities, merely increasing police presence may not yield the desired results. Additionally, the recruitment of minors into drug gangs remains a pressing issue, with statistics indicating that a significant percentage of those involved in drug trafficking are teenagers.

The Independent

Kessaci has stated, “In France in 2026, in a state governed by the rule of law, you cannot prevent people from coming and going,” reinforcing his commitment to campaigning despite threats. He also acknowledges the necessity of a strong police response but emphasizes that it must be coupled with community engagement and support.

The Independent

• “In the mourning I’m going through, the message I want to convey is that I will not be silent,” — Amine Kessaci, Activist

The Independent

• “Drug trafficking leaves a trail of grief and death,” — Amine Kessaci, Activist

The Independent

• “The ‘narcocracy’ is this power they have to influence our lives: to block entrances to housing projects, to control who can come and go, to instill a sense of terror,” — Amine Kessaci, Activist

The Independent

• “In this election, in this campaign, in this political struggle, my only enemy is drug trafficking,” — Amine Kessaci, Activist

The Independent

As the municipal elections approach, Kessaci's campaign will continue to focus on raising awareness about the impact of drug trafficking on communities in Marseille. His efforts aim to galvanize support for comprehensive strategies that address both law enforcement and community development.

The Independent