French president Emmanuel Macron has called on his newly reshuffled government to learn from the recent riots that erupted following the police shooting of a teenager in Nanterre. The death of Nahel Merzouk, a 17-year-old, during a routine traffic stop in June, sparked protests, riots, and looting, exposing deep-seated issues of institutional racism within the police force.
Addressing his cabinet at their first meeting since the reshuffle, president Macron emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from the unrest to prevent the nation from facing further fragmentation and division. He stressed the need for authority, respect, and urgent response to address the underlying issues that triggered the protests.
"We must draw lessons from what happened and provide sound answers," stated Macron.
He asserted that this task would shape the government's priorities after the summer break.
The riots that gripped France marked the most significant outbreak of urban violence since 2005 and ignited debates on topics like law and order, immigration, racism, and police brutality. The recent government reshuffle, which was interpreted as an attempt to move past a series of crises faced by the Macron administration since his re-election, indicated the president's desire for continuity and efficiency in tackling pressing issues.
While the cabinet revamp was relatively limited in scope, retaining Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne in her position was seen as crucial for maintaining stability and ensuring a smooth transition. Macron's emphasis on "continuity and efficiency" showcased his determination to confront the challenges ahead.
During the cabinet meeting, president Macron also discussed the importance of bringing the country's finances back on a solid footing. The extensive spending to support the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide energy subsidies for households resulted in a significant rise in deficits and national debt. Macron underlined the need to prepare for a demanding fiscal framework to put France in a position to repay its debt, reduce taxes, and prudently manage deficits.
The president's popularity ratings, which experienced a steep decline in April, have begun to recover, with a July 5 poll showing that 31% of respondents had a positive view of him. His commitment to addressing the issues highlighted by the recent riots and his focus on economic stability have resonated with some sections of the public.
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