Concerns over far-right victory as Paris heads to early election's first round

La France Insoumise leader Jean-Luc Melenchon gestures before casting his ballots after voting in the first round of parliamentary elections in Paris, on June 30, 2024(Photo by Dimitar DILKOFF / AFP)

ALBAWABA - After losing the European Parliament (EP) election, President Emmanuel Macron scheduled early elections in Paris, raising concerns of a far-right win.

Over 49 million French voters are choosing 577 National Assembly representatives in the first round of early general elections. The early attendance seems good.

Parisians discussed the elections with AA journalists. An anonymous 33-year-old Parisian, Alex, said, "I hope everyone takes action against the extremists, and we can remain in an atmosphere of peace and sharing." He noted that a far-right Assembly majority would be worrisome.

Another voter, François, praised Macron's early elections following the EP results. However, he questioned the short preparation time and campaign partnerships. "The debates were not substantial discussions necessary for choosing the right people and direction; they were about alliances," he said. He anticipated that the far-right would dominate the first round but not win an Assembly majority.

Paris' 20th district inhabitant Virginie noted the election's difficulty. She encouraged voting in the uncertain climate and hoped the far-right would lose. Virginie noted the strong first-round participation and urged another early election if the far-right won.

Early elections were called after the far-right National Rally (RN) won 31.4% of the June 9 EP elections, double Macron's Renaissance party's vote. Macron dissolved the Assembly and called early elections on June 30 and July 7. Political instability and civil discontent were generated by this choice before the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Unlike past elections, left-wing parties failed to build coalitions but rallied behind the "New People's Front Alliance" to fight the far-right. The PS, LFI, PCF, and Greens are members of this coalition. Meanwhile, the far-right RN has partnered with several center-right Republicans (LR).

Many French towns have seen protests against far-right rise. President Macron will not quit despite the election result, saying the institutions and the president's duty are clear.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).