Paris, 23 October (H.S.): French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to prohibit demonstrations deemed “illegitimate” in the coming days, accusing far-left groups and vandals of fuelling the violence and looting that erupted during protests last weekend. The move comes as authorities across France prepare for fresh demonstrations amid mounting public discontent and growing concerns over law and order.

Speaking after a meeting with intelligence officials and senior ministers on Thursday, Macron said demonstrations organised by established groups, including trade unions, would be permitted to proceed. However, authorities could redirect their routes to safeguard businesses and prevent further violence.

Macron accused ultra-left groups of engaging in what he described as politically motivated and seditious activities aimed at undermining the French Republic. His remarks came as officials warned that the country could face another volatile weekend following some of its most serious urban disturbances in recent years.

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has proposed tougher measures against individuals who violate protest bans. These include suspending their voting rights and restricting social media access for those implicated in violence, looting or attacks on police.

Authorities have already prohibited all demonstrations scheduled for Saturday in Marseille and Lyon, France’s second- and third-largest cities, respectively. Nevertheless, preparations for further protests are continuing. The country’s main student union, UNEF, has called for rallies on Saturday, while the Yellow Vest movement, which emerged as an anti-establishment force in 2018, has submitted plans for a march through central Paris.

Businesses in the French capital are taking precautionary measures ahead of the anticipated demonstrations, with shops boarding up their windows to guard against potential vandalism. Luxury goods company Hermès has strengthened security at its stores across France. Organisers of Art Basel Paris, an international art collectors’ fair being held at a central Paris exhibition venue, have announced that the event will remain closed throughout the weekend.

In the northern city of Orléans, authorities are also preparing for possible disturbances as the far-right National Rally party prepares to hold its annual gathering, while trade unions and left-wing groups plan demonstrations.

A student protest scheduled for Thursday in Paris was initially prohibited but was subsequently allowed to proceed. Despite the decision, transport authorities closed several metro stations in central Paris in anticipation of unauthorised gatherings.

The latest tensions follow violence on October 17, when clashes on the fringes of nationwide demonstrations exposed the depth of public frustration and raised questions about the security services’ ability to maintain public order. Two people have reportedly been arrested in connection with an arson attack on the city hall in Limoges.

A third consecutive night of local curfews passed without major incidents in areas affected by the unrest, providing temporary relief to the government ahead of the weekend.

Beyond the immediate security concerns, the protests reflect broader economic and social grievances. Rising energy prices, mounting pressure on household finances and dissatisfaction with deteriorating public services have intensified frustration among workers and younger people. The unrest has also sharpened political divisions, with the government accusing far-left groups of encouraging disorder.

The turmoil is beginning to weigh on financial markets as well. On Thursday, the risk premium on French government debt over German benchmark bonds widened to its highest level in 15 years. France’s benchmark 10-year government bond yield climbed to 5.14 per cent, its highest level since July 2002, underscoring investor concerns over the country’s political and economic stability.

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

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar