In a surprising turn of events, Malika Sorel, the former second-in-command on the Rassemblement National (RN) list for the 2024 European elections, has announced her departure from the party's delegation at the European Parliament. This decision, made public on April 19, 2025, comes less than a year after Sorel joined the party, led by Jordan Bardella, with hopes of contributing to France's political landscape.
Sorel's announcement was shared via the social media platform X, where she expressed her growing discomfort with what she described as an "oppressive group logic" within the RN. "I have never been a member of the Rassemblement National, but I thought I could be useful to France within this delegation. I was disappointed," she stated, revealing her disillusionment with the party's internal dynamics.
In her statement, Sorel elaborated on her reasons for leaving, citing the need to renounce any degree of freedom and the annihilation of intellectual reflection within the party's ranks. "The gravity of the current situation in France requires us not to submit to partisan logics when they prevent us from working towards the recovery of our country, our homeland," she concluded, indicating a desire to prioritize the nation's needs over party politics.
Malika Sorel's political journey has been marked by notable affiliations and a diverse background. Previously a member of the Haut Conseil à l'intégration during Nicolas Sarkozy's presidency, she had garnered attention for her essays on immigration and her critiques of what she terms the "decomposition of France." In March 2024, she had publicly declared her support for Jordan Bardella, describing the RN as the only party defending the superior interests of France and its people. Her shift toward the far-right party was seen as a significant move given her past associations with more centrist figures like Dominique de Villepin and François Fillon.
Despite her initial enthusiasm, Sorel's departure has prompted reactions from within the RN. Following her announcement, several party officials have called for her resignation as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP). Deputy Christophe Barthès expressed his disbelief at Sorel's actions, stating, "It's funny, I was convinced from the beginning that you would act like this, I must be a seer. (...) Return your mandate, you dishonest person." His sentiments were echoed by other party members, including Maxime Amblard, who emphasized the need for coherence in her political stance.
The RN, which has been a significant player in French politics, particularly in the realm of immigration and national identity, now faces the challenge of addressing the fallout from Sorel's departure. Her exit raises questions about the party's internal cohesion and the potential impact on its electoral strategy moving forward.
As Sorel transitions to being labeled as "non-affiliated" in the European Parliament, the implications of her departure extend beyond her personal political journey. It reflects a broader narrative of disillusionment among political figures who find themselves at odds with party ideologies, particularly in a time of political polarization in France.
In the wake of her resignation, Sorel's future in politics remains uncertain. While she has not yet responded to calls for her resignation, her statements suggest a commitment to maintaining her current role, at least for the time being. "I refuse to submit to partisan logic," she has asserted, indicating a potential willingness to forge a new path independent of traditional party structures.
As the political landscape in France continues to evolve, the ramifications of Sorel's departure from the RN will likely be felt in upcoming elections and party dynamics. Her critiques of the party's internal workings and her call for intellectual freedom resonate with a segment of the electorate that yearns for a more open and reflective political discourse.
Looking ahead, Sorel's experience serves as a cautionary tale for political parties that prioritize loyalty over diversity of thought. As she embarks on this new chapter, her journey will undoubtedly be watched closely by both supporters and critics alike, as she navigates the complexities of political affiliation and personal conviction in an ever-changing landscape.
In this context, the Rassemblement National faces a critical juncture. With the 2024 European elections behind them and internal challenges surfacing, the party must address the concerns raised by Sorel and others who feel constrained by rigid party lines. The future of the RN may depend on its ability to adapt and respond to the evolving political climate in France.
