Macron Rejects French Interior Minister’s Resignation as Violent Protests Leave Thousands Arrested

French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected the resignation of Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez following widespread riots and violent clashes that erupted across France over the weekend. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is expected to hold an emergency meeting with ministers to address the unrest, which has resulted in thousands of arrests, damaged businesses and intensified pressure on the government.

The demonstrations, which began with student protests over conditions in schools and education, expanded into wider public anger over the rising cost of living and concerns about public services. Hundreds of thousands of people took part in demonstrations across the country on Saturday, October 17, according to figures released by the authorities. While many demonstrators marched peacefully, some gatherings descended into violence, looting and vandalism in cities including Paris, Marseille and Lyon.

More than 2,400 people had been arrested by Monday as police continued efforts to restore order. The unrest also left hundreds of businesses damaged or looted, while fires and attacks on public buildings added to the destruction. In Limoges, a historic town hall was set on fire, and other cities reported damage to shops and public infrastructure.

Nuñez offered to resign, accepting responsibility for the security response. He acknowledged that police had lost control in some locations and that authorities had underestimated the scale of the violence. However, Macron declined to accept his resignation, with the presidency saying continuity in the leadership of the security forces was necessary during the crisis. The president also called for greater transparency over failures in intelligence and planning that contributed to the unrest.

The government’s handling of the protests has come under growing scrutiny. Officials have faced questions about whether security services were adequately prepared for the scale of the demonstrations, while reports of injuries during confrontations have also prompted criticism of police tactics. French authorities have said they will investigate the violence and identify those responsible for looting and attacks on public buildings.

The crisis comes at a difficult time for Macron’s administration, with economic concerns and a contentious budget debate adding to political pressure. The unrest has also highlighted the challenge facing the government in responding to public frustration while distinguishing peaceful protesters from those involved in violence.

Lecornu’s meeting is expected to focus on restoring public order and coordinating the government’s response. As investigations continue, the authorities face the dual task of holding those responsible for violence accountable and addressing the broader grievances that brought demonstrators onto the streets.