Macron bans ‘illegitimate’ protests in France

The restrictions, announced Thursday following an emergency meeting with intelligence chiefs and senior ministers, come ahead of another wave of demonstrations planned for Saturday, after some of France's worst street violence in years. Macron said local authorities would prohibit gatherings organized by individuals or groups deemed to lack legitimate authority, while demonstrations arranged by recognized organizations would be considered for approval but could be forced onto alternative routes.

Crackdown Measures

Macron declared: 'The general recommendation is that there should be no demonstrations in the coming days,' insisting the measures were necessary to restore calm and protect businesses and public buildings. He claimed: 'Last Saturday we had political and seditious acts by ultra-left groups whose aim is to bring down the Republic,' accusing organized radicals of orchestrating violence and looting.

Escalating Unrest

France has been gripped by escalating unrest since protests over teacher shortages and deteriorating school conditions spread into a broader movement against rising prices, inequality and cuts to public services. Around 550,000 people joined demonstrations last Saturday, which descended into clashes with police, arson and widespread looting.

Nearly 2,500 people have been arrested, while approximately 1,000 police officers and gendarmes were injured, according to figures reported by French media. Authorities have already prohibited Saturday's demonstrations in central Lyon, Marseille, Nice and Toulon, while in Paris, one authorized march has been diverted away from the city center.

Political Reactions

Opposition leaders have blamed Macron's policies for the crisis. National Rally leader Marine Le Pen described him as a president 'without credibility or authority' who has 'lost all touch with reality,' while left-wing leader Jean-Luc Melenchon accused his government of undermining public services over the past decade.

Even police unions have turned against the administration. Alliance Police Nationale announced plans to sue the state, accusing officials of abandoning officers during the riots. Macron has also clashed with US President Donald Trump, who blamed France's turmoil on uncontrolled immigration, with the French leader dismissing such comments as 'stupid' and 'unacceptable.'

The president is expected to chair another emergency defense council meeting on Friday to decide whether further restrictions are needed ahead of Saturday's protests.