Protesters' Demand for Attention in Eure, France, Directed at Sébastien Lecornu Over Budgetary Policies
In the heart of Vernon, the second-largest city in the Eure department, a crowd estimated between 1,000-1,200 people gathered in front of the town hall on Thursday. The occasion? A demonstration against the new Prime Minister of France, Sébastien Lecornu, who was elected mayor of Vernon at the tender age of 27.
The demonstration was one of four organized across the country on Thursday, with Vernon being the second-largest city to join the protest. The crowd spilled over onto Rue Victor-Hugo and even onto the lawn of the Boulevard de la Buffardière, as people voiced their concerns about Lecornu's leadership.
Among the protesters was Johanne, an agent of maintenance in Évreux, who went on strike due to her dissatisfaction with her situation. She expressed frustration over a stagnant salary, an unemployed son, and less leisure time. Lecornu, who built his political career in Évreux, was urged to listen to their concerns.
Meanwhile, in a different context, Eric Carrière, a resident who has dealt with Lecornu in the context of organizing a music festival, attested to Lecornu's good listening skills and effectiveness in addressing concerns. Carrière even suggested Lecornu for the Minister of Culture position, an offer that has yet to be responded to.
Evelyne, who voted for Lecornu in the 2014 municipal elections, acknowledged some issues with his management but also gave him credit for his ability to dialogue. This sentiment was echoed by a Force Ouvrière militant who shouted for Lecornu to hear them.
The protests in Vernon came amidst criticism from political figures such as Philippe Brun, a socialist deputy, who refused to be a minister under Lecornu, believing him unfit for the job. Olivier Guillot, the departmental secretary of the CGT, criticized Lecornu for closures of local services, abandonment of popular neighborhoods, and embodying the most right-wing wing of Macronism.
However, Lecornu has shown signs of responsiveness. If the former Minister of the Armed Forces abolished the "lifetime" benefits of former ministers as soon as he took office, it is believed that he did so in response to feedback from the people.
As the dust settles from the protests, it remains to be seen how Lecornu will navigate the challenges of his new role as Prime Minister. One thing is certain, though: the eyes of the nation are on him.
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