French Minister Warns of Unrest After Elections French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has issued a stark warning, stating that the country is at risk of unrest following the upcoming presidential election. “We are facing a very high risk of serious incidents, even violent incidents, after the first round of the election,” Darmanin told reporters on Thursday. The minister’s comments come amid heightened political tensions in France, with several candidates making controversial statements and engaging in heated debates. The election is seen as a pivotal moment for the country, with the outcome potentially having major implications for its domestic and foreign policy. Darmanin cited a number of factors contributing to the potential for unrest, including the rise of far-right extremism, economic inequalities, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. He also pointed to the increasing use of social media to spread misinformation and hate speech. “We need to be prepared for the worst,” Darmanin said. “We are taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety, but we cannot be everywhere at once.” The minister announced that additional security forces would be deployed on election day and in the days following. Law enforcement agencies have also been given increased powers to crack down on potential troublemakers. Darmanin urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. He also appealed for calm and unity, regardless of the election outcome. “France is a strong and resilient country,” Darmanin said. “We must come together to defend our democracy and ensure a peaceful transfer of power.” The warning from the French interior minister has raised concerns among political analysts and civil society groups. They have called for a responsible and respectful election campaign, free from violence and division.French Interior Minister Warns of Potential Unrest After Parliamentary ElectionsFrench Interior Minister Warns of Potential Unrest After Parliamentary Elections French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has expressed concerns about potential unrest in the country following the upcoming parliamentary elections. Security Risks and Targeted Destabilization According to a memo distributed to police prefects, Darmanin highlighted a “context shaped by several security risks” and potential “targeted destabilization actions.” He warned that ultra-left and ultra-right groups could exploit the election results to incite chaos. Polls and Possible Outcomes Polls indicate that the anti-immigration National Rally could significantly increase its presence in the National Assembly. A National Rally victory could result in Jordan Bardella becoming Prime Minister, despite his lack of governing experience. Economic and Social Tensions Darmanin raised concerns about “extremely serious unrest” after the political summer break in September if the far-right or far-left gains power. He warned of potential pressure on financial markets if their economic plans are implemented. Additionally, autumn is traditionally a period of union protests, adding to the potential tension. National Rally’s Potential Policies Bardella has expressed plans to halt France’s supply of long-range weapons to Ukraine over fears that it could draw France into a direct confrontation with Russia. Uncertain Election Outcome Despite the concerns, the outcome of the parliamentary elections remains uncertain due to France’s two-round voting system. The initial round on Sunday will narrow the field for the decisive second round on July 7.French Minister Warns of Unrest After Elections France’s interior minister has warned of potential unrest following the country’s upcoming presidential election. Gérald Darmanin told Le Figaro newspaper that the risk of violence “remains high” in the wake of the April 10 and 24 polls. He said the government was taking “all necessary measures” to maintain order, including deploying 50,000 police and gendarmes on election day. Darmanin’s comments come amid rising political tensions in France, with far-right candidate Marine Le Pen posing a strong challenge to incumbent Emmanuel Macron. Polls suggest a tight race, with Le Pen’s anti-immigration and Eurosceptic message resonating with some voters. However, Macron has warned that a Le Pen presidency would be “disastrous” for France, prompting fears of social unrest if she wins. The interior minister also cited the ongoing war in Ukraine as a potential source of instability, saying it could lead to “unpredictable” consequences for France. He urged the public to remain calm and to reject calls for violence from any political group.