Patrick Devedjian is a French politician who has held several elective and appointed positions, from minister to parliamentarian to mayor. 

Origin

He was born in Fontainebleau, France. His father was born in Sivas, Turkey, while his mother was born in France. Devedjian’s father and family escaped from Turkey after the Genocide in 1919, saved by a Turkish neighbor.  

Claim to fame 

Devedjian was a minister during the government of President Nicolas Sarkozy. He was also a frontrunner for the position of the Minister of Justice. Since President Sarkozy’s exit he has served in the National Assembly as one of the high-ranking representatives of the UMP party. 

What he said

“I revere equality but when it’s necessary to make a choice, I choose liberty.” 

“I am in politics because of ideas; I take no pleasure in power…” 

What others said

“…of the complex and tormented character [of Devedjian], capable of panache and courage…” – L’Express.