France witnessed massive protests on Wednesday with demonstrators blocking roads, clashing with police and setting fire in Paris as well as other cities in anger at the political class and planned budget cuts.
A fierce clash erupted between protesters and police in the capital city of Paris. Following recent protests in Nepal, demonstrations have now emerged in France, with over 1,00,000 people taking to the streets to voice their opposition to budget cuts and to demand the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron.
Rioters in Paris hurled garbage bins at police. Cops burst tear gas shells to manage the situation. The unrest resulted in many buses being set ablaze, and demonstrators waved posters criticizing President Macron and LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault.
Demonstrators tried to incite rebellion: Home Minister
In the city of Rennes, protesters set a bus on fire, while train services in the southwestern region were halted due to damage to a power line. The Home Minister accused the demonstrators of attempting to incite rebellion. The Left parties have called for a nationwide strike, termed 'Block Everything,' to amplify their demands.
80,000 police officers deployed
The government has responded by deploying 80,000 police officers, and over 200 people have been arrested amidst the unrest.
Dissatisfaction With President Macron's Policies
A significant portion of the public perceives Macron's policies as detrimental to the interests of ordinary citizens, allegedly favoring the wealthy.
On Tuesday, President Emmanuel Macron appointed his fifth prime minister in less than two years, choosing a close ally, Sebastien Lecornu, which outraged left-wing politicians.
Budget Cuts Put Burden on Working Class
Recent government measures have included cuts to expenses, reductions in welfare programs, and economic reforms, placing additional strain on the middle and working classes.
With Sebastian Lecornu recently appointed as Prime Minister, he becomes the fifth person to hold the position in less than two years, contributing to a sense of instability and dissatisfaction among the populace.
'Block Everything' Movement
Leftist coalitions and grassroots organizations have initiated Block Everytjhing movement to pressure the government by creating a situation of nationwide standstill.
These protests coincide with a major political upheaval, as Prime Minister Lecornu prepares to take office following the resignation of François Bayrou, which came after a no-confidence motion was passed.
Prakash Kumar Pandey