Mélenchon warns Macron to yield or leave

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, the presidential candidate for La France insoumise (LFI), stated that President Emmanuel Macron "will have to yield or leave" following the demonstration on October 31. Mélenchon reiterated this on Saturday, accusing the media of underestimating the scale of the demonstrations that took place in France for the third consecutive Saturday.

Demonstrations continue despite efforts to reduce turnout

Mélenchon noted that despite closed metro stations, a week of media campaigns by the official authorities, and a change in the gathering location, the crowd was as large this week. He participated in the Paris demonstration between the Porte de Bagnolet and the Porte de Charenton, stating that the processions were calm and the crowd was "as disciplined" as last Saturday.

Media underestimation fuels Macron’s stance

Mélenchon added that by claiming otherwise and once again underestimating their numbers, the media encourage Macron to prolong the show of force, and the fall will be harder. He will have to yield or leave. He emphasized that the media's portrayal of the protests influences the government's response and could lead to more severe consequences if the situation is not addressed.

Official figures show decline in protest size

According to official figures from the Ministry of the Interior, 320,000 people demonstrated on Saturday to protest against the cost of living and the conditions of study in high schools and universities, compared to 410,000 on October 24. The organizers reported nearly 500,000 participants, indicating a gap between official counts and their own estimates.

Incidents reported at the end of demonstrations

Incidents occurred at the end of the processions in Paris and other cities, such as Marseille and Toulouse. These included clashes between protesters and police, as well as damage to property, highlighting the tensions that continue to surround the demonstrations.

Mélenchon has previously called for Macron to yield

Mélenchon had already called on the head of state on October 24 to "yield." He added that after that, Macron will have no choice but to leave, reinforcing his stance that the government must address the concerns of the protesters or face political consequences.