Mélenchon Accuses Socialist Party of Seeking New Alliances
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, the leader of the left-wing party La France Insoumise (LFI), has publicly accused the Socialist Party (PS) of attempting to create a new political base, effectively sidelining the current New Popular Front (NFP) alliance. In a series of statements made on social media and during interviews, Mélenchon criticized the PS for its outreach efforts beyond the traditional left, asserting that the party is in search of new allies while excluding LFI from these discussions. He stated, "The PS is looking for allies. But it will be without LFI," highlighting his discontent with the PS's direction.
The tensions escalated following remarks from PS leaders, including Boris Vallaud, who, during an appearance on France Inter, proposed discussions among all parties except the National Rally (RN) regarding the conditions for non-censorship should the government led by Michel Barnier face a vote of no confidence. Vallaud expressed a desire to revive the collaborative efforts initiated by the NFP groups in the Assembly and Senate, indicating a willingness to negotiate on budgetary policies and other legislative priorities.
Bouamrane's Critique and Mélenchon's Response
In response to these developments, Karim Bouamrane, the mayor of Saint-Ouen and a former minister, criticized Mélenchon’s call for a "technical government" in the event of Barnier's government being censured. Bouamrane accused Mélenchon of fostering chaos within the left and urged members of various leftist factions to distance themselves from him. He emphasized the need for unity and preparation for upcoming elections, suggesting that the PS's approach is aimed at consolidating power rather than fragmenting it.
Mélenchon, however, remained defiant, questioning who would prevent the PS from shifting its political stance and transforming the NFP into a new coalition with other parties. His remarks reflect a growing rift within the left in France, as traditional alliances are tested amid calls for new political strategies.
