19.10.2026 10:50
French President Emmanuel Macron did not accept the resignation offer submitted by Interior Minister Laurent Nunez after the protest demonstrations and violent incidents across the country over the weekend. In a statement from the Elysee Palace, it was reported that Nunez was asked to remain in his post in order to preserve the chain of command in the security forces.
Protests that began in France due to rising living costs, failing public services, and problems in the education system turned into violent incidents across the country on Saturday, October 17. Clashes broke out between protesters and police in many cities, while town halls were set on fire, businesses were looted, and public buildings were damaged.
French President Macron did not accept the resignation offer submitted by Interior Minister Nunez after the weekend protests and violent incidents across the country. In a statement from the Elysee Palace, it was reported that Nunez was asked to remain in his post in order to preserve the chain of command in the security forces, and that he was requested to develop new methods as soon as possible to combat looting.
MACRON CALLS FOR CALM
In his address to the nation yesterday, Macron called on the public to remain calm. Condemning the violent incidents, Macron said that those protesting peacefully may have legitimate demands, but these people should not be equated with groups aiming to disrupt public order.
Stating that the destruction in France was unacceptable, Macron said the incidents had created anger and shame in society. Despite calls by some right-wing politicians to declare a state of emergency, Macron did not announce any decision in that direction. However, Macron stated that steps would be taken to allow prefectures to ban protests when necessary in order to protect public buildings and local businesses.
THOUSANDS OF DETENTIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY
According to information provided by French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, one person who suffered a heart attack during protests in Paris died. Across the country, approximately 2,400 people were detained, while about 1,000 police officers were injured.
Clashes also occurred in Paris and Marseille yesterday. Around Place de la Republique in Paris, police intervened against protesters with tear gas. It was reported that some protesters set piles of bicycles on fire. The French government blamed far-left groups and criminal groups that it alleged incited the looting for the violent incidents.
STATEMENTS BY FRENCH POLITICAL LEADERS ON THE PROTESTS
Jean-Luc Melenchon, a left-wing politician in France and leader of the La France Insoumise (France Unbowed) movement and a presidential candidate, argued in his statements about Saturday's protests that protesters' social demands, such as the high cost of living and problems in public services, must be taken into account. Stating that he did not support looting and vandalism, Melenchon said that those who share his political struggle should not participate in such actions.
In addition, criticizing the way the police leadership intervened in the protests and stating that the authorities were responsible for the escalation of tension, Mélenchon emphasized that while criticizing the violent incidents, the social problems behind the protests should not be ignored.
Jordan Bardella, one of the leaders of France's far-right National Rally (Rassemblement National) party, took a stance arguing that public order must be protected in the face of the protests and violent incidents. Condemning the violence and looting, Bardella emphasized that security must be ensured and those responsible must be punished.
National Rally Party leader Marine Le Pen, meanwhile, called for calm, stating that France should not become accustomed to images of violence and destruction.
PRIME MINISTER LECORNUS TO HOLD CRISIS MEETING ON SUPPORT FOR AFFECTED SMALL BUSINESSES
In a fire that broke out in the city of Limoges in the central part of the country, the clock tower of the town hall collapsed. The city's Mayor Guillaume Guerin argued that the national police had not been deployed in sufficient numbers in the city. Guerin claimed that the town hall was set on fire in a premeditated attack in a way that endangered the lives of those inside. The mayor announced that he could resign if the necessary resources for repairing the building were not provided.
Economy Minister Roland Lescure, meanwhile, announced that support would be provided to businesses damaged in the incidents. Lescure stated that those who caused the destruction must compensate for the damage and be held responsible for their actions.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu will chair a crisis meeting today to discuss support for small businesses.