National Rally addresses security concerns

Before its scheduled weekend congress in Orléans, the National Rally (Rassemblement national) raised concerns with the government about the event's security, citing the planned counter-demonstrations and shared worries from the mayor and local merchants, who remain affected by the violence on October 17.

Congress expected to draw large crowds

The congress, which officially launches the National Rally's presidential campaign, is expected to host 5,000 activists on Saturday and double that number on Sunday, according to a local party official. The event is a key moment for the party's campaign.

Party seeks assurance from authorities

Sébastien Chenu, vice-president of the National Rally, told France 2 that he expects the authorities to "secure" the event. He noted that about fifty organizations have called for counter-demonstrations, with between 10,000 and 15,000 participants expected, according to police sources.

Party vows not to cancel event

Chenu confirmed that the National Rally does not "want to cancel" its congress, despite the anticipated tensions. He said the party's deputy from the Gard, Yoann Gillet, would raise the issue during the government questions session at the National Assembly on Tuesday afternoon.

Counter-demonstrations planned

Starting Saturday, a large demonstration is planned to begin at 10:30 AM from the cathedral's square, expected to gather several thousand participants against "racism, fascism, and imperialism." An "antifascist village" with associative stands and workshops is also planned from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Notable attendees expected

Several personalities are expected to attend, including Bally Bagayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis from the LFI party, and Sophie Binet, general secretary of the CGT. The League for Human Rights (LDH) has invited those who support solidarity, social justice, and democracy to participate.

Authorities prepare for potential unrest

Undeclared gatherings could also take place on Sunday, according to police sources, who warned of a "busy" weekend. The mayor of Orléans, Serge Grouard, expressed concern in a social media video, comparing the planned demonstrations to those in Paris, Marseille, and Rennes, where significant violence occurred.

Merchants fear repeat of violence

Local merchants, still recovering from recent violence, are also worried. Alban Liger, vice-president of Vitrines d'Orléans, warned that "ultra-violent groups, vandals, and looters" could come to Orléans to cause chaos. He called on officials to help protect businesses during the weekend.

Coordination efforts continue

The Orléans city council and the Loiret prefecture confirmed that coordination efforts continue around the event. A meeting among concerned actors took place on Tuesday, with the possibility of implementing "restriction measures" being discussed.