Interview with François Bayrou in Bétharram: Ex-Mathematics Teacher Accuses Him ofInsincerity and Seeking Excuses

The Dishonest Ex-Teacher's Verdict: François Bayrou Accused of Lying About Bétharram Affair

In a blunt statement last Wednesday, ex-mathematics teacher Françoise Gullung threw herself into the controversial emissions surrounding François Bayrou, former Minister of Education and current Prime Minister, regarding the twisted history of the Bétharram affair. This scandal revolves around allegations of violence and abuse at the Notre-Dame de Bétharram Catholic school in southwest France.

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During a parliamentary hearing on the Bétharram affair, François Bayrou leveled accusations against Gullung, labelling her claims as "fabrication." However, she stands her ground, stating, "I did not fabricate." She notes that Bayrou attempts to turn this investigation into a political dilemma, questioning his ability to answer questions truthfully and branding him as a master of evasive speech.

Gullung states that she brought several concerns regarding the violence within the institution to Bayrou's attention during his tenure as the Minister of National Education in the 1990s, but her warnings were disregarded. She believes this inaction allowed abused children to suffer for an additional thirty years[4].

Politics and Religion's Toxic Mix

The Bétharram affair has raised concerns about the complicity of religious institutions in covering up such scandalous acts. Excessive political support for Bayrou, despite the mounting allegations, has left many questioning the ethics of his power base[2][5].

Following the shocking revelations, public opinion has shifted drastically. Approximately 7 out of 10 French individuals believe that if the investigation concludes falsifications on Bayrou's part, he ought to resign[3]. The parliamentary inquiry is currently ongoing, with a tentative plan to deliver conclusions by late June[4]. The future outcome of this intricate affair might spell the end of Bayrou's political career.

Sources

"Betharram Affair: French PM François Bayrou Under Intensified Scrutiny Over Sex Abuse Claims," The Guardian, May 15, 2025
"François Bayrou Facing Increasing Criticism Over Betharram Affair," France24, May 16, 2025
"Betharram Affair: Calls for Bayrou's Resignation Escalate," Le Monde, May 17, 2025
"Ex-Teacher Gullung Takes Bayrou to Task over 'Cover-Up'," ourwebsite, May 18, 2025
"Daughter of French PM Alleges Sexual Abuse at Bétharram School," BBC News, May 20, 2025

In light of the ongoing parliamentary inquiry into the Bétharram affair, Stevens, a political analyst, discusses the role of policy-and-legislation in addressing such affairs: "The Bétharram affair underscores the necessity for strong policy-and-legislation to address institutionalized abuse, ensuring that those in positions of power are held accountable and that victims are protected."
As the raison d'être behind the formation of a special parliamentary commission, the former teacher’s accusations against the Prime Minister have brought political news to the forefront, garnering widespread attention and public scrutiny: "Following the controversial Bétharram affair, the political landscape has been dominated by questions regarding policy and leadership, with the public eager for answers and justice in this general news story."