Protests over the cost of living in France shook the government: Minister resigned, Macron refused

Political tension rose in France following protests against the high cost of living, the deterioration of public services and problems in the education system. Following the violence in many cities over the weekend, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez submitted his resignation to President Emmanuel Macron.

In the statement made by the French Presidential Office, Elysee Palace, it was reported that Macron did not accept Nuñez's resignation.

It was reported that Macron wanted Nuñez to continue his duty, stating that continuity should be ensured in the management of the security forces.

The President also instructed the Minister of Internal Affairs to prepare new intervention methods against looting and violence as soon as possible.

Demonstrations across the country began with reactions to rising living costs, disruptions in public services, and conditions in schools.

As weekend protests turned violent in some cities, public buildings and workplaces were targeted. Extensive material damage occurred in the incidents, in which many stores were looted and clashes occurred between security forces and demonstrators.

While the historical town hall in the city of Limoges was set on fire, violent incidents occurred in various cities, especially Paris and Marseille.

APPROXIMATELY 2 THOUSAND 400 PEOPLE WERE DETAINED

According to the statements of the French authorities, approximately 2,400 people were detained during the events that took place over the weekend.

While many people were injured in the clashes between security forces and demonstrators, hundreds of workplaces were damaged.

Following the events, the way the security forces intervened and the government's preparations against the protests also became a matter of debate.

Following the violent incidents, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu decided to hold an extraordinary government meeting on Monday, October 19.

It was stated that economic activities and trade, insurance processes and judicial audit issues will be discussed at the inter-ministerial crisis meeting.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez is planned to go to Marseille, where serious incidents occurred during the protests, and evaluate the security situation in the region.

HARD STATEMENT FROM MACRON: 'THEY WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE'

Addressing the public on Sunday evening, October 18, following the events across the country, President Macron reacted harshly to the violent incidents.

Expressing that he felt "anger and shame" over what happened, Macron said, "Those who try to harm the Republic will be held accountable."

While Macron condemned the violence in his speech, he did not announce any concrete measures to eliminate the social unrest in the country.

The government in France faced increasing pressure on security policies and maintaining public order following the weekend's events.

Authorities continue to work to repair damaged public buildings and workplaces, identify people involved in the incidents, and prevent new violent incidents.

On the other hand, it was stated that the announcement of new mass demonstrations on November 5 increased concerns that the tension in the country may continue.