President Emmanuel Macron has sounded the alarm, warning that if the far-left or far-right parties win the upcoming legislative elections, France could face an armed conflict. According to Macron, only his centrist coalition can steer the country away from such a dire outcome.
In an interview on the “Generation Do It Yourself” podcast, Macron painted a grim picture, claiming that the policies of the far-right National Rally and the far-left France parties are polar opposites and can heighten societal tensions. The legislative elections, set for this Sunday with a second round on July 7, have become a focal point of Macron’s efforts to stave off what he describes as extremist threats.
Macron didn’t mince words, labelling his opponents as extremists, his rhetoric could lead to further conflict. He suggested that during tough times, people might be tempted by the quick fixes offered by these parties but warned that rejecting others is not the solution. His dire warnings of civil war and armed conflict seem to be a strategic attempt to scare voters away from his rivals.
Critics, however, point out that Macron provides little concrete evidence to support his claims that the far-right would destabilize France. Instead, they argue that these assertions are part of a fear-mongering tactic aimed at securing his political base.
Earlier this month, Macron dissolved the French parliament and called for snap elections after his party suffered significant losses in the European Parliament elections. This bold move came as a reaction to the clear message sent by the French electorate, expressing their dissatisfaction with the current administration. Macron, despite these setbacks, insists he will remain president until his term ends in 2027. He believes that his leadership is crucial for maintaining stability and steering France through these turbulent times.
Nevertheless, an opposition-controlled legislature would drastically alter the balance of power in Paris, leading to potential clashes over policy direction and governance. The new legislative landscape could force Macron to negotiate more extensively and make significant concessions to get his agenda through, fundamentally changing the dynamic of French politics.
Macron’s rhetoric aims particularly at the National Rally, accusing them of reducing individuals to their religious or ethnic identities. He argues that this approach is not only divisive but also dangerous, as it fosters an environment of suspicion and hostility among different communities. By emphasizing such differences, Macron claims, that the National Rally is pushing the country toward civil war, threatening the social fabric of the nation.
He levelled similar accusations at Jean-Luc Mélenchon’s France Unbowed, suggesting that their focus on identity politics also fuels division and conflict. According to Macron, both parties, despite their opposing political ideologies, share a common tactic of exploiting societal fractures for political gain. This, he argues, exacerbates tensions and undermines the unity essential for France’s stability. By framing the issue in such stark terms, Macron aims to highlight the dangers of what he sees as extreme and irresponsible politics, drawing a clear contrast between his centrist approach and what he portrays as the polarizing agendas of his opponents.
Recent polling by Ipsos shows the National Rally leading with 35.5% support, while a leftist coalition that includes France Unbowed is at 29.5%. Macron’s alliance lags behind at 19.5%. These numbers underscore the significant challenge Macron faces in maintaining his coalition’s influence.
In response to the election results in the European Parliament, Macron acknowledged voters’ desire for change.
Macron and his supporters continue to portray their political opponents as dangerous and bigoted. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal echoed these sentiments, warning that an extremist victory could unleash violent impulses and hatred within the country. According to Attal, some people harbour hatred and a desire to attack certain communities, and an extremist victory might amplify these negative sentiments.
In summary, Macron’s campaign strategy involves painting his rivals as existential threats to French stability, employing vivid language to highlight the potential dangers of an extremist victory. While his critics see this as a scare tactic lacking in evidence, Macron remains steadfast in his belief that only his centrist coalition can prevent France from descending into chaos. With the elections fast approaching, the outcome will determine the future direction of the nation’s domestic and foreign policies, setting the stage for a potentially tumultuous political landscape. Rather than addressing political, social and economic concerns, Macron is busy fuelling hatred within the French people.
