French authorities have reported over 50 physical assaults on candidates and campaigners during the ongoing campaign for the country's high-stakes parliamentary elections. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin revealed that the attacks have varied in severity, with some victims requiring hospitalization.
Concerns about political violence have escalated as tensions rise in the lead-up to the elections. Approximately 30 individuals have been detained for questioning in connection with the assaults, as the government strives to maintain order and security.
The heightened security measures come amidst fears of potential unrest if extreme political factions gain significant ground in the elections. President Emmanuel Macron has even warned of the risk of 'civil war' if the far-left or far-right achieve a substantial victory.
Recent incidents include the attack on government spokesperson Prisca Thevenot's team and the assault on National Rally politician Marie Dauchy, leading to the suspension of her campaign. Additionally, a center-right candidate, Nicolas Conquer, lodged a formal complaint after allegedly being assaulted by left-wing campaigners.
The interior minister highlighted the persistent terror threat in the country, with recent arrests made in connection to potential terrorist activities. Despite the gravity of these incidents, formal classification as terrorist acts is pending confirmation by the national anti-terrorist prosecutor.
In the first round of parliamentary elections, the far-right RN party secured a significant lead with 33.15% of the vote, followed by the left-wing NFP coalition at 27.99% and Macron's Ensemble alliance at 20.76%. While the RN is poised to win the most seats in the National Assembly, the possibility of a hung parliament looms, signaling further political uncertainty for France.
