Mayors seek expanded powers

Edouard Philippe, mayor of Le Havre and a presidential candidate, has asked the government to grant mayors and municipal police more authority and resources, following recent urban violence described as having "exceptional gravity."

Focus on law enforcement needs

In a letter dated October 20 to Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, Philippe urged the executive to "take measures to give more powers to mayors and their municipal police," arguing that this would help maintain order and prevent future incidents like the violence seen on October 17.

Legislative delay criticized

Philippe called for the rapid adoption of a bill extending municipal police powers, which had already been approved by the Senate and a law committee but was still waiting for debate in the National Assembly. He said that on October 17, "it would have been necessary to have more forces to prevent, dissuade, reassure, or defend."

Current legal restrictions

Municipal police officers in France are currently limited in their ability to sanction individuals in the act of tagging, collect identification except in specific cases, or work alongside national police to protect public buildings. Philippe criticized these limitations, calling it "absurd" that officers are often armed with firearms but not allowed to use crowd control grenades.

Proposed use of technology

In his letter, Philippe asked Lecornu to implement parts of the Ripost law, which would allow the use of algorithmic surveillance. He also requested permission for mayors to use facial recognition technology, under judicial oversight, to protect public buildings during high-risk demonstrations.

Political context and support

Philippe criticized President Emmanuel Macron's recent speech, saying it showed a "lack of initiatives," and argued that "our country needs to be commanded." However, recent surveys suggest his support is declining, and he may not qualify for the second round of the presidential election.

Government response planned

In response to planned mobilizations, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised a "massive" police deployment to manage potential unrest.