French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the French people on Sunday evening as the country is plagued by social unrest and widespread riots.
In the wake of the large demonstrations that began with the country’s student community and spread rapidly, accompanied by serious clashes and an escalation of state repression, the French president, as he had previously stated, delivered an address.
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The French president referred to the serious incidents that erupted alongside Saturday’s large demonstrations, noting that nothing justifies what happened.
Emmanuel Macron takes a stand and condemns the actions of “far-left groups,” as he calls those he holds responsible for the riots.
“We all feel anger and shame tonight,” the President of the Republic said with regret, speaking from his office at the Élysée Palace.
“Public buildings, stores, and town halls were attacked and, in some cases, destroyed.”
“Many hundreds of police officers were injured. When we saw the images, we all thought: What were they thinking? How can the French do something like this in France?”
He says that “nothing justifies” the riots and the damage caused.
“We all feel anger and shame tonight. It is unbearable to see our cities, the streets of our cities, being looted like this.”
“I understand our high school and college students,” said Emmanuel Macron, referring to the young people who flooded major French cities across the country demanding better living conditions and education.
“I have taken various measures at the international level to (support) our energy supply. These efforts must be reflected in prices. I know that the French people are expecting concrete results,” the French president added.
“Those who caused the disasters must pay”
He added: “Our youth feel deep anxiety (…) about their future, about their ability to find their place in society. I understand our high school and college students, and they are at the heart of my public commitment. Their voices must be heard. Our responsibility is twofold: to listen to their anger and to resolutely uphold the democratic order.”
“Those who caused the destruction must pay,” Macron asserts.
“Yesterday, law enforcement officers, despite their professionalism, were subjected to unprecedented violence. I have asked the government to draw all the necessary lessons regarding intelligence, and there will be complete transparency. The investigations will be conducted with the utmost (…) rigor,” Macron added in his speech.
“Our judges administer justice on your behalf and know what you expect. Those who caused destruction must pay; those who tried to overthrow the Republic will be held accountable.”
Source: iefimerida.gr
