Macron also said his government would hold a meeting to discuss “violent action groups” following the fatal beating of Quentin Deranque, which has sparked left-right tensions ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The 23-year-old died of head injuries after being attacked by at least six people on the sidelines of a demonstration against politicians from the leftist France Unconquered (LFI) party in the southeastern city of Lyon last week.
Speaking at an agricultural industry fair in Paris, Macron urged “everyone to remain calm” ahead of a rally for Deranque in Lyon, which is due to take place under heavy security later Saturday, despite Lyon’s leftist Green mayor asking the state to ban it.
2,000 to 3,000 people are expected to attend the rally, and counter-demonstrators from the far left are also likely to appear.
– In the Republic, no violence is legitimate – said Macron, who will not be able to run in next year’s elections after reaching the two-term limit.
(Vijesti.ba / FENA)
