French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to hold accountable those who “sought to bring down the Republic” after protests descended into looting and rioting across major cities on Saturday, deepening the country’s political crisis.
In a televised address on Sunday, Macron said “nothing justified” the scenes of unrest across France, where a historic town hall in Limoges was engulfed in flames.
“Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable,” the French President said.
Macron acknowledged the public’s frustration and anger over the unrest, while condemning what he described as “insurrectionist elements from the radical far left, joined by numerous criminals”. He urged all politicians to condemn the violence.
Macron also urged the public to distinguish between those peacefully protesting over what he called “legitimate demands” and those using the demonstrations as a pretext to destroy, smash and loot.
Macron’s address was highly anticipated, as the president, interior minister and prime minister faced scrutiny over the handling of the police operation.
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who is leading in polls ahead of next April’s presidential election, accused Macron of laxisme, or being too soft, while progressive and Green groups criticised what they saw as excessive police force against protesters.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the far-left (LFI), has been accused by critics of fuelling chaos and further violence.
Macron, who is due to travel to Kuwait on Monday, did not announce additional security measures but said local authorities would work directly with police to protect “our cities, our public buildings and our stores”.
On Saturday, large crowds gathered in major French cities to protest over the cost of living and deteriorating student conditions. What began as peaceful demonstrations descended into chaos, with rioting, looting, fires and widespread damage to shops.
More than 2,000 people were arrested and over 600 police officers, gendarmes and firefighters injured, according to official figures.
The unrest comes as France prepares for next year’s contentious presidential election. Macron said the country deserved a “beautiful election” driven by debate, not violence.