French soccer star Kylian Mbappé has expressed concern over the recent first round of French elections, labeling the results as 'catastrophic' as the far-right anti-immigration party National Rally (RN) emerged as the leading party. Mbappé, who captains France's national soccer team, emphasized the urgency for the French public to exercise their voting rights, especially in the face of the current political landscape.
President Emmanuel Macron's decision to call snap parliamentary elections has stirred political uncertainty in France, with the far-right gaining significant traction. The RN secured 33.15% of the vote in the first round, positioning them as a formidable contender for political power, potentially marking the first time a far-right party enters the French government since World War II.
The upcoming second round of voting scheduled for this Sunday holds critical importance, with Mbappé urging widespread mobilization to ensure a favorable outcome. The soccer star emphasized the need for citizens to make informed choices and actively participate in shaping the country's future.
Mbappé's advocacy for political engagement is not new, as he has previously highlighted the significance of the younger generation in influencing national policies. Expressing his concerns about the rise of extreme ideologies in French politics, Mbappé stressed the importance of upholding values that align with a diverse and inclusive society.
Joining Mbappé in voicing political opinions, his teammate Jules Kounde also expressed dismay over the current political trajectory in France. Kounde emphasized the need to resist the extreme right and prevent regressive policies that could undermine the country's progress towards greater freedom and inclusivity.
As France prepares for the decisive second round of elections, the calls for civic engagement and responsible voting resonate strongly among public figures like Mbappé and Kounde. Their advocacy underscores the critical role of active citizenship in safeguarding democratic principles and promoting a society that upholds fundamental values of equality and tolerance.