Macron Urges Political Extremes to ‘Put Their Houses in Order’ After Activist’s Death

French President Emmanuel Macron has called on political extremes to “put their houses in order” following the death of a far-right activist during clashes in Lyon over the weekend. Speaking to reporters during an official visit to India, Macron said there was “no space in France for movements that adopt or legitimise violence”.

The 23-year-old nationalist, Quentin Deranque, died after sustaining head injuries in a fight outside a university conference featuring Rima Hassan, a Member of the European Parliament from La France Insoumise (France Unbowed). The incident has triggered political backlash, with scrutiny falling on activist networks allegedly linked to elements on the hard left.

Macron criticised ultra-left groups, including the Young Guard, warning that claims of forming militias for “self-protection” amounted to a moral failing.

While focusing on far-left violence, he also urged the far right to expel extremist factions. France Unbowed’s parliamentary leader denied party involvement, despite reports that two parliamentary aides have been arrested as part of the investigation.

via Politico