Marine Le Pen calls for ‘renaissance for France’ as National Rally leader kicks off presidential campaign – after more than 1,300 arrested and 50 police hurt in violent protests across country
Marine Le Pen used her presidential campaign launch to promise a “renaissance for France” and a return to the rule of law, as unrest over the cost of living continued. She blamed the authorities for being too soft on violent protesters, making public order a central campaign issue ahead of the presidential election in April.
Police said 1,314 people were arrested and 53 officers injured during weekend protests. More than 400,000 people marched in major cities on Saturday; the Interior Ministry reported 75 fires and 24 looted shops, while two protesters were reported seriously injured. Le Pen addressed about 10,000 party members in Orléans, where her running mate Jordan Bardella said France was “on the verge of collapse”.
In short
- Le Pen launched her campaign with a promise to restore the rule of law.
- Weekend protests led to 1,314 arrests and 53 injured officers.
- More than 400,000 people marched over the rising cost of living.
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The case for
Supporters of Le Pen’s emphasis on public order argue that large demonstrations involving fires, looting and injuries show the state must protect residents, businesses and peaceful protesters more effectively. They see a firm response to violence and a clear commitment to the rule of law as legitimate priorities, especially when unrest is disrupting communities.
The case against
Critics argue that making security the centrepiece of a campaign during protests over the cost of living risks treating a social grievance chiefly as a law-and-order problem. They may contend that the scale of peaceful participation matters too, and that authorities should protect public safety while addressing the economic pressures driving people to demonstrate.
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