Incident at Saint-Étienne Market
An investigation into meeting violence was launched in Saint-Étienne following an altercation involving Hervé Breuil, a National Rally (RN) candidate in the legislative elections. The incident, described as a 'stampede, insults, and splashes of water and flour,' occurred near the Labor Exchange. Breuil, who wears a pacemaker, was subsequently taken to the emergency room for examinations. The police have opened an investigation into the matter.
Accusations and Denials
Marine Le Pen, the far-right leader, accused 'ultra-left militias' of orchestrating the attack on Breuil. She condemned the violence, stating that 'an electoral campaign in a democracy cannot admit this unleashing of ultra-violence.' However, the New Popular Front denied any involvement in the incident, emphasizing their stance against such actions.
Political Tensions in Loire-Atlantique
In a separate but related development, twins Alain and Michel Hunault are running as candidates in the early legislative elections in Loire-Atlantique. Alain, the mayor of Châteaubriant, initially campaigned under the LR label but has since distanced himself from the party due to internal disagreements. He now runs as an independent right-wing candidate. Michel, on the other hand, is supported by the RN, marking a significant shift from his previous political affiliations. The differing political paths of the twin brothers highlight the growing tensions and complexities within the French political landscape.
- Hervé Breuil's claim of being attacked by masked individuals adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing legislative elections. The police investigation will be crucial in determining the veracity of these claims and identifying the perpetrators.
- The Hunault twins' divergent political paths reflect broader trends in French politics, where traditional party lines are increasingly blurred. Alain's decision to run as an independent right-wing candidate and Michel's alignment with the RN signify a shift towards more personalized and localized political campaigns.
- Marine Le Pen's accusation against ultra-left militias underscores the polarized nature of current French politics. The denial from the New Popular Front highlights the contentious and often accusatory atmosphere surrounding the elections.
- The political history of the Hunault family, with their father Xavier Hunault also having held significant political positions, suggests that political engagement runs deep in the family. However, the current rift between the brothers indicates that even familial ties are not immune to the broader political divisions in France.
