Emmanuel Macron's visit to Mayotte following the devastating cyclone Chido has sparked significant controversy, particularly due to his remarks aimed at defending France against local grievances. Macron's comments, which some residents and political figures perceived as dismissive, occurred during his visit on December 19, 2024, as the island grappled with the aftermath of the cyclone, which left at least 35 dead and thousands affected.
During his visit, Macron addressed local residents who voiced their frustrations over the perceived lack of state support after the cyclone wreaked havoc across Mayotte. He declared, "When one insults France, the president gets angry!" This comment came after he criticized members of the Rassemblement National (National Rally) for allegedly organizing gatherings to decry the government's response to the crisis. Macron lamented, "Yesterday evening, we will be clear: officials from the Rassemblement National deemed it appropriate to organize militant gatherings and insult France, saying it does nothing. And I told the truth.” This statement ignited outrage among many who felt his response was inappropriate considering the dire situation.
Macron tried to assert France’s efforts, advising against divisiveness among citizens, asserting, "We cannot want to be a French department and claim it does not work when France is showing solidarity. Everyone must respect each other. We will hold out as a team." His insistence on national pride amid criticism did not sit well with many residents, who were enduring the fallout of the natural disaster and urgently needed assistance.
The public response to his visit was marked by protests. Many locals chanted “Macron démission!” (Macron resign), voicing their discontent not only with his words but also with the government's overall response. They demanded tangible aid and services, particularly addressing the pressing shortage of water and electricity as the infrastructure began to recover from the cyclone.
Reflecting on Macron’s approach, Amine Elbahi, a jurist and local political figure, remarked, “Without doubt, Emmanuel Macron has forgotten Mayotte is a French department.” This highlights the sentiment many feel about the perceived neglect of their region by the French government, especially during such crises.
Reactions from political leaders across the spectrum were sharp. Sandrine Rousseau, an ecologist MP, criticized Macron’s demeanor, accusing him of adopting ‘an arrogant and patronizing attitude’ at such a vulnerable time. She asserted, "We face the greatest humanitarian disaster since the Second World War, and Macron is putting on a show.” Echoing this sentiment, Éric Coquerel, another politician, reinforced the idea with little commentary, stating, "This exchange speaks for itself, considering the pressures till 2027."
On the right, deputy Sébastien Chenu also expressed concern over Macron’s remarks, believing they did little to comfort the Mahoran people who feel consistently marginalized. Christophe Bentz of the National Rally commented on Macron's apparent disregard for their struggles, stating, "What disdain and arrogance toward these French citizens suffering from a natural disaster ravaging Mayotte! Macron's behavior will never live up to the fundamental issues of our great nation."
The cyclone Chido was catastrophic for the region, causing structural damage and significant disruption to services. Reports indicate the cyclone caused not just loss of life but also left more than 2,400 individuals injured. The local government attempted to address infrastructure issues with officials assuring they were restoring basic services, with plans to provide water both through aerial drops and emergency deliveries. While some efforts have been made, the reality on the ground remains stark, with many still without essentials days after the cyclone.
During the tumultuous exchanges between Macron and the residents, he stated, "You would be 10,000 times worse off if it were not France!" which, instead of reassuring the crowd, only fueled frustration, as many locals feel patronized and left behind. His tone suggested he was defending national integrity rather than addressing the immediate needs highlighted by residents through their protests. Public sentiment reflected the yearning for aid rather than rhetoric.
Mayotte, as France’s youngest and most geographically distant department, has long struggled with issues of development and recognition. The cyclone Chido has intensified existing disparities and underscored the urgent need for effective governmental response. Macron's comments and defiance during the visit could send shockwaves through local political dynamics, perhaps reshaping how both the government and the people view their relationship moving forward.
With public confidence shaken and discontent brewing, it is uncertain how these events will affect Mayotte's political climate as the population presses for justice and genuine assistance.
