Republican Party's Internal Strife Over Alliance with National Rally
The French Republican Party is witnessing the most significant internal conflict in its recent history. The turmoil started when Éric Ciotti, the party's president, announced an unexpected alliance with the National Rally (RN) ahead of early legislative elections scheduled for June 30 and July 7. This controversial decision has led to a revolt within the party, with leaders and supporters expressing vehement opposition to the rapprochement.
Key Figures Speak Out Against Ciotti
The newly appointed co-leader of the Republican Party, MEP François-Xavier Bellamy, has been vocal about his stance on the issue. Bellamy stated without hesitation that in a scenario where a candidate from the left-wing alliance 'Popular Front' faces an RN candidate, he would support the RN candidate to block what he calls ‘a threat to France.’ He emphasized his commitment to his right-wing convictions and criticized the New Anti-Capitalist Party (NPA) for its alleged support of Hamas.
Membership and Activists in Disarray
Eric Ciotti's decision has not only fractured the leadership but has also left the party's grassroots in turmoil. A recent Odoxa-Backbone poll reveals that 50% of right-wing supporters are in favor of the pact with the nationalists, while 79% of RN supporters also approve of the alliance. However, Ciotti's decision has led him to shun important party meetings, and key figures like Xavier Bertrand are calling for his ouster, insisting that any electoral agreement must be sanctioned by a vote from the members.
Future Legislative Elections and Continued Protest
As the early legislative elections approach, the internal protests show no signs of abating. François-Xavier Bellamy has called for unwavering support for their candidates in the first round, describing them as the best defense against 'rebellious France.' Conversely, the LR vice-president Florence Portelli announced her intention to cast a blank vote in any RN vs. Popular Front duel, denouncing both sides as extremist.
- Compounding the party's internal strife, Ciotti chose to close the party headquarters for 'security reasons,' a move that has been heavily criticized by Xavier Bertrand and others within the Republican Party. Bertrand accused Ciotti of displaying a lack of honor, branding him as a traitor and a coward. These accusations reflect the deepening divisions that are pushing the party toward a possible implosion ahead of the crucial legislative elections.
- Despite many calling for stern actions, including the exclusion of Ciotti, the possibility of a full-on party vote to resolve the conflict remains open. This vote could potentially recalibrate the party's direction and could either validate Ciotti's controversial strategy or firmly reject it, thereby stabilizing the growing rift.
