MOSCOW, October 19 (HS/RIA Novosti) - French President Emmanuel Macron refused to accept the resignation of Interior Minister Laurent Nunez after a weekend of unrest across the country, Le Monde newspaper reported on Monday, citing the Elysee Palace.

Macron demanded that the government analyze the shortcomings in ensuring security during the protests. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu will hold an interdepartmental crisis meeting on Monday to assess the damage and determine support measures for those affected.

Right-wing and left-wing opposition parties demanded Nunez's resignation, accusing him of failing to ensure public order, after insufficient police presence in unrest-hit cities was reported.

Mass demonstrations over the rising cost of living and falling education standards escalated into clashes with police on Saturday. In the city of Limoges, rioters set fire to the historic city hall building. Administrative buildings in Marseille and other cities were also attacked.

Macron promised to punish those involved in violence, while acknowledging the legitimacy of the demands of peaceful demonstrators.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar