Legislative Elections 2024: Macron’s Call for Responsibility Amid Rising Extremism

Speaking at the Fête de la Musique held at the Élysée Palace, Macron emphasised the necessity of addressing political extremes head-on.

Macron’s remarks come amidst a contentious political climate, with debates intensifying across France. The President addressed the audience in the Élysée’s courtyard, which had gathered to enjoy performances by artists such as the Canadian-Ukrainian pianist Anastasia Rizikov, singer Gilbert Montagné, and DJs Ofenbach and Agoria.

On June 9th, Macron made the significant decision to dissolve the Assembly, a move he described as “grave” and burdensome. Despite the gravity of this action, he urged the public not to succumb to fear, reiterating, “No, no, no, it is not necessary to be very afraid.”

Macron Addressing Political Extremes

The President highlighted the alarming rise of the far-right, noting a combined 40% vote share in the European elections for the National Rally (RN) and Reconquête. He also criticised the radical left within the New Popular Front, accusing both extremes of collaborating on censure motions.

“Contrary to what they say, one is not the safeguard against the other. They vote together on motions of censure!” he asserted, frequently raising his fist in emphasis.

“There are extremes that we cannot let pass,” Macron declared, drawing applause from the crowd.

He stressed the importance of taking responsibility now, rather than passively observing the growth of extremist factions.

Macron expressed his “confidence in the French people, their intelligence, their strength,” and rejected the idea of governing in opposition to the people’s will.

Rejecting Communalism and Hate Speech

Macron also spoke out against communalism and separatism, advocating for unity and cooperation among France’s diverse populace.

“There are many respectable differences among us, and many men and women will have to govern together despite these differences,” he noted.

This statement alludes to potential scenarios of cohabitation with Marine Le Pen’s National Rally or coalition governments involving other political forces alongside the presidential camp.

“We do not want a country set against itself! We do not want any communalism! Any separatism! Any hate speech!” Macron continued, unequivocally denouncing both racism and anti-Semitism. “There is no racism that justifies anti-Semitism! And there is no anti-Semitism that can be justified by anything!”

A Call for Republican Universalism

Concluding his address with a call for “Republican universalism,” Macron framed the fight against extremism as a “formidable battle” that France must undertake.

Despite calls from his political camp to remain in the background due to his declining popularity, Macron’s speech had a campaign-like fervour.

His remarks were underscored by a recent incident in Courbevoie, near Paris, where a 12-year-old Jewish girl was sexually assaulted in an anti-Semitic attack. The assault, perpetrated by teenagers who called her a “dirty Jew” and threatened her life, has sparked outrage within the Jewish community and beyond.

Macron’s speech at the Fête de la Musique reflects his administration’s stance against rising extremism and his commitment to maintaining France’s republican values.

The forthcoming legislative elections are set to be a critical juncture for the nation’s political landscape, with Macron advocating for unity and responsibility in the face of divisive forces.

Read also:

Macron’s Approval Rating Plummets by 6 Points Following Dissolution of French Parliament

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