Pratik AgrawalOpposition leaders from across France’s political spectrum have torn into President Emmanuel Macron’s televised address to the nation after the violent unrest of October 17, accusing him of helplessness and a complete lack of real solutions.
French opposition parties from every corner of the political map have sharply criticized President Emmanuel Macron’s address to the nation following the mass riots of October 17. They accuse the head of state of helplessness, offering no real answers, and failing to restore public order, French broadcaster BFM TV reported on Monday.
Macron Condemns Riots, Promises Tough Action
The evening before, Macron gave a televised address after large scale riots broke out during protests against the rising cost of living. The president condemned the looting and vandalism and promised tough measures in response. At the same time, he admitted that the peaceful demonstrators had valid grievances and asked the government to open a political dialogue.
Bardella Calls the Speech Pathetic
National Rally party leader Jordan Bardella posted a scathing reaction on social media platform X. He said, “Emmanuel Macron’s speech was pathetic. This cowardly and directionless government has no words and no proposals left for the French people. It doesn’t even have the strength left to protect them.”
Right Wing Demands a State of Emergency
Republicans party leader Bruno Retailleau described the president’s address as “extremely worrying.” He said, “The president of the republic looks completely lost, unable to use the power of the state against unrest that threatens the republic.” Retailleau called on Macron to declare a state of emergency to protect French citizens.
Left Wing Says the President Said Nothing
Criticism also came from the left. France Unbowed party coordinator Manuel Bompard accused the president of dodging responsibility. He said, “The president of the republic announced nothing this evening. It is irresponsible to speak and say nothing.” Bompard urged the government to give a real political response to the protesters’ demands.
Mathilde Panot, who leads the France Unbowed parliamentary group, called Macron a “chaos maker” whose remarks only “pour fuel on the fire.”
Greens Compare France to a Ship Without a Captain
Green senator Yannick Jadot described the president’s speech as “a terrible display of powerlessness.” He compared France to a sinking ship, taking on water, with no rudder and no captain at the helm.
Riots Leave Buildings Burned and Thousands Detained
The mass protests on October 17 turned violent, with clashes against police, looted shops, and attacks on government buildings. In Limoges, the city hall was set on fire. In Marseille, protesters broke into the municipal building. French authorities said more than two thousand people were detained during the unrest.
Interior Minister Keeps His Job
On Monday, it also emerged that Macron had refused to accept the resignation of Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, despite heavy criticism of how police handled the protests.
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