NewsFrench police brace for post-election violence in Paris

French police brace for post-election violence in Paris

Another riot in France? They could start as soon as today
Another riot in France? They could start as soon as today
Images source: © East News | AA/ABACA

6:52 AM EDT, July 7, 2024

French daily "Le Figaro" reported on Sunday that the police expect acts of violence after the second round of parliamentary elections. The possibility of clashes involving radical left-wing activists is being considered. In Paris, 5,000 police officers have been mobilized.

The prospect of the far-right National Rally (RN) victory and the party obtaining a relative or absolute majority in parliament is causing the forces responsible for maintaining order to be concerned about potential actions by the far left.

French police assess that clashes are likely between the most radical elements of both camps—either those dissatisfied with the defeat or those celebrating the victory.

Restlessness in France

After the first round on June 30, 37 incidents were recorded in various cities. Now, the number could rise to around one hundred.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin stated on Friday that during the campaign before the parliamentary elections, 51 physical attacks on political candidates, their assistants, or party activists were registered.

Across the country, 30,000 officers were mobilized on Sunday.