Following the devastating passage of Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte on December 14, 2024, President Emmanuel Macron made his way to the French overseas department to address the immense destruction experienced by the locals. During his visit on December 19, just five days after the cyclone's aftermath, Macron expressed the heartfelt support and commitment of the entire French nation to the stricken region.
Addressing citizens at Mamoudzou, the capital of Mayotte, Macron stated, "I was among you to express the support and affection of the whole French nation" (Reported by Mayotte La 1ère). His comments came amid significant human and material losses, with reports indicating at least 35 deaths due to the cyclone. Macron elaborated on the challenges faced by the residents, acknowledging, "It's also a terrible material disaster... many of our compatriots have lost their homes" (Reported by Mayotte La 1ère).
During his visit, Macron promised immediate action to restore basic services and assist those affected. "From tomorrow, all households will be reconnected to running water," he declared, outlining his government's commitment to the recovery efforts (Reported by Mayotte La 1ère). He explained the emergency protocols being implemented, including the distribution of bottled water, food supplies, and logistical support for relief efforts.
While Macron's promises aimed to address immediate concerns, the background of the island’s struggles loomed large. The cyclone's impact led to the destruction of key infrastructure such as electricity, water supplies, and telecommunication networks, leaving many residents vulnerable and homeless. Macron added, "I cannot allow people to insult our country..." (Reported by Le Monde), reacting to the frustration expressed by residents during his visit.
Despite the logistical challenges, Macron emphasized the coordination underway among multiple government agencies to facilitate recovery. Water distribution has included road transport and airlifting supplies directly to affected regions. Infrastructure repairs will play a significant role, and Macron underscored, "It's been a considerable effort over the past days to distribute supplies to municipalities".
Macron's visit has not been without controversy, as many locals voiced their anger at the French government's perceived inadequate response. Protestors outside his meeting confronted him with shouts of "Macron démission!" expressing dissatisfaction with the support offered. Criticism continued to pour in from various political sectors, with opponents branding his comments to locals as condescending. "Mayotte, the French pearl, deserves so much more than presidential contempt!" reached the ears of many when voiced by Eric Ciotti, the former president of the Republicans.
Macron's remarks during the visit have elicited fears of rekindling tensions between the government and Mayotte’s citizens, as he pointedly remarked to distressed locals, "You are proud to be French! If it wasn't France, you would be ten thousand times worse off!" (Reported by Le Monde). His challenges sparked outrage from both political enemies and supporters alike.
Despite the backlash, Macron reassured the people of Mayotte of his return to oversee recovery efforts. "I will return... to render accounts" (Reported by Mayotte La 1ère) showed his determination to continue supporting the region’s rebuilding process. He promised to maintain close contact with officials on the ground and to assist with any additional resources needed as reconstruction efforts proceed.
With the recovery underway, challenges remain, particularly concerning the re-establishment of educational facilities. Macron warned, "We will not be able to open all schools on January 13" (Reported by Mayotte La 1ère), acknowledging considerable infrastructural damage affecting schools across several municipalities. Nevertheless, he assured families solutions would be provided, including potential school placements on the mainland.
The government's officials announced supporting measures for business owners, allowing for flexibility for those affected by the cyclone. The collection of contributions and social security dues will be suspended temporarily to ease the immediate financial burdens faced by local businesses.
President Macron concluded his visit on an emotional note, stating, "I have been touched and moved by the despair, sadness, and even anger of many" (Reported by Mayotte La 1ère), demonstrating his empathetic connection to the citizens of Mayotte. While the humanitarian needs of the citizens of Mayotte are pressing, the political ramifications of his statements remain to be seen as the region grapples with reconstruction and recovery.
