“This decision is not a neutral one,” Retailleau told French broadcaster CNEWS. “It is not normal from a democratic standpoint.”
Retailleau argued that the May Day festivities, which are generally marked by union demonstrations across France, would play into the hands of the left — especially if the protests turn violent.
This year’s demonstrations resulted in 15 arrests, while 72 protesters were detained in clashes with police in 2025.
“We can clearly see that May Day — today — rarely passes calmly, so there’s always a build-up of tension, sometimes leading to outbursts,” Retailleau said. “Can you imagine the eve of a runoff election?”
With current President Emmanuel Macron constitutionally barred from seeking a third consecutive term, a large number of candidates are lining up to replace him. Among them are two of his former prime ministers, Édouard Philippe and Gabriel Attal, and radical left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon.
The front-runner will be whoever runs from the far-right National Rally, which is leading in the polls. Marine Le Pen, the longtime leader of the party, is currently appealing a conviction for embezzling European Parliament funds, a ruling that has blocked her from running in the 2027 election. If her appeal fails, she has welcomed the option of her protégé, Jordan Bardella, running in her place.
“The choice of the government — that was the left’s choice,” he added, insisting the demonstrations would be used as de facto campaign events. “Don’t try to make me believe that in the marches, in the statements, there won’t be any political repercussions.”