Mayotte is reeling under the weight of devastation brought on by cyclone Chido, which struck the island on December 14, 2024, resulting in at least 35 fatalities and over 2,500 injuries. Amidst this humanitarian crisis, the choice of timing for the announcement of the new French government has sparked outrage, particularly from local deputy Estelle Youssouffa.
On December 23, the French government, led by Prime Minister François Bayrou, had originally planned to announce its new ministerial lineup. This date coincided with the national mourning instigated by President Emmanuel Macron, who had declared this day as one of remembrance for the cyclone's victims. Youssouffa objected vehemently, stating, "The national mourning for Mayotte transforms itself on the day of the announcement of the new government... I cannot fathom this scenario of indecency and contempt for the Mahorais who are still in absolute distress." This poignant statement highlights her concern over the political class's focus on restructuring government rather than addressing the urgent needs of affected citizens.
The devastation left by cyclone Chido has led to catastrophic conditions across Mayotte, with reports indicating nearly 90% of the population lacks proper shelter. Many residents have been deprived of basic necessities like clean water and electricity, exacerbated by the chaotic conditions following the cyclone. Youssouffa criticized the government’s response, emphasizing, "There is no water available in Mayotte. Ministers continue to communicate as if nothing is happening, ignoring the immense suffering on the island. The humanitarian crisis is unprecedented; we are facing a desert of healthcare services." Her remarks capture the feeling of neglect felt by many on the island.
Details from the aftermath of cyclone Chido reveal the scale of the destruction; Youssouffa noted, "There are great numbers of people unaccounted for, especially among the densely populated slum areas. These neighborhoods have become graveyards rather than safe havens." This tragic observation speaks to the larger issue of unrecorded fatalities and the need for urgent humanitarian aid.
During interviews, Youssouffa did not hold back her criticism of fellow politicians, particularly targeting those who she feels have failed to prioritize the needs of Mayotte. "While we await this new government, the humanitarian crisis worsens. We can seek political change without forgetting where our responsibility lies—helping the living with urgent relief. We're witnessing looting, people are taking from the remains of destroyed homes to attempt to survive. It's distressing," she stated.
The political timeline established by Macron and Bayrou, which anticipates announcing the new cabinet before Christmas, has led Youssouffa to urge for sensitive handling of the situation. "It seems like this government is more focused on the rearrangement of power rather than attending to the suffering of those who've been hit worst by this natural disaster. It is both indecent and demoralizing," she remarked, continuing to push for legislative measures to aid reconstruction.
On France Inter, she passionately voiced her distress, stating, "Everyone seems to neglect Mayotte, portraying the community’s suffering as secondary. How can we prioritize political maneuvering over those who have lost their lives and homes? It’s deeply painful." Youssouffa characterized this sentiment as broadly felt among her constituents and the broader public, who see the announcement of government appointments as tone-deaf during this time of grief.
Youssouffa's call for responsibility does not simply address the influencers of political change but aims at galvanizing solidarity from the French populace. "There is tremendous compassion and support from the public, one the political class fails to reciprocate," she noted, indicating her belief in the need for enhanced action and mobilization directed toward the relief of Mayotte’s stricken population.
Frustrations with the central government’s approach have resulted not just from the timing of announcements but also from the perceived inadequacies of government aid efforts. The Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, is also under fire for allegedly making false claims about restoring services such as water supply and communication systems. Youssouffa responded vigorously, clarifying, "He just left without addressing the chaos left behind. It is insulting to hear empty promises when people are suffering."
Reflecting on the lost lives and significant humanitarian needs, Youssouffa's advocacy for urgent relief and empathetic governance shines through as fundamental. She has stressed the importance of prioritizing humanitarian relief and fortifying social order over political transactions. "There is nothing more pressing now than to aid those who survived the cyclone,” she asserted, drawing attention to the dire conditions residents continue to endure.
Considering the grave situation on the island, it is more important than ever for the French government to tread carefully and with respect for the local community’s grief. With political announcements set to coincide with a day of mourning, the sentiment articulated by Youssouffa resonates strongly: Mayotte cannot afford to be left out of the national conversation—especially not when the very survival of its people hangs in the balance.
