Political Turmoil Grips French Right-Wing Party
The headquarters of the Les Républicains (LR) party was abruptly closed this Wednesday, as Éric Ciotti, the party's president, ordered all employees to leave by midday and to continue working remotely. The closure came just hours before a scheduled political office meeting intended to discuss Ciotti's resignation, following his highly controversial proposal to form an alliance with the National Rally (RN). The proposed alliance has been met with near-universal condemnation from elected officials and party members.
Internal Mutiny Against Ciotti
Ciotti's proposal has led to widespread turmoil within the party, prompting almost all elected officials and permanent members to distance themselves from him. On Tuesday, Ciotti was effectively isolated as members cut off his access to social networks and email. In response, a rebellion emerged, with senior party officials, under the guidance of Annie Genevard, organizing an emergency political office meeting to dismiss him. However, Ciotti dismissed the legality of the meeting, claiming it violated party statutes and internal regulations.
Local Reactions and Fractures
The backlash isn't confined to the national level. In Yvelines, prominent right-wing leaders expressed their dissent, with figures like Pierre Bédier and Senator Sophie Primas resigning from the party. Othman Nasrou, president of LR 78, declared that no alliance with the RN would be acceptable, especially with the legislative elections approaching. Local party members reiterated their commitment to a principled political line, rejecting any compromise with extreme parties. Sandrine Berno Dos Santos, mayor of Poissy, accused Ciotti of betrayal and emphasized the importance of maintaining the party's integrity.
- Despite the chaos, local Republicans aim to remain a significant force in upcoming legislative elections. François-Xavier Bellamy's successful European campaign has provided a glimmer of hope. The LR candidates in Yvelines have pledged loyalty and consistency to their political family. However, the challenges they face are stark, compounded by the rise of extreme parties like RN and LFI in recent elections.
- The situation highlights a broader concern within the party about its future direction. Leaders are divided between maintaining traditional right-wing values and adapting to a changing political landscape. The controversy surrounding the proposed alliance with the National Rally has accentuated these internal conflicts, demonstrating the fragile unity within Les Républicains.
