Eric Ciotti, having recently been expelled from the Republicans (LR), asserted on CNews that he is “and remains the president” of the party. He stated that only the party’s members could deny him this legitimacy, claiming that they trust him “very much.” Ciotti explained his decision to align with the National Rally (RN) by expressing his belief that his political family was stalemated, torn between divergent positions. He wanted to shake things up and break through politically correct taboos by forming an alliance with the RN, which he said was influenced by preliminary agreements between left-wing parties.
Despite a national investiture commission meeting on Wednesday that reconfirmed 59 out of 61 LR incumbent deputies, Eric Ciotti declared his intention to present his own candidates. He argued that, as president of the Republicans, he would have the responsibility to allocate investments, indicating that the commission had no legal authority to do so. He announced that around 80 candidates from LR, who will represent his political family, will be supported by the RN. Ciotti also highlighted the dangers posed by the “insoumis” for the Republic, while insisting that LR would remain true to itself. He pledged that in the National Assembly, if they win the elections, they would be in separate groups but would form a majority to restore France.
When asked by a CNews journalist if he was the victim of a coup, Eric Ciotti responded affirmatively, claiming that his exclusion from the LR political bureau was illegal and against the party’s statutes. He argued that LR could do without its key figures, believing that the unity of the right would be supported by right-wing voters themselves. In proposing to form a majority to rebuild the country if they win the legislative elections, Ciotti emphasized the commitment of LR to remain true to its principles, despite the internal discord and his expulsion.
Ciotti’s decision to align with the RN has caused ripples within the LR party, with reactions ranging from support to reproach. Some see his move as a necessary step to break the political deadlock within LR and bring change to the party. Others view this alliance with the RN as a betrayal of LR’s values and principles, questioning Ciotti’s loyalty to the party. The implications of this political maneuver are significant, as it could reshape the French political landscape and alliances in the upcoming elections.
The fallout from Ciotti’s expulsion and his subsequent actions could have far-reaching consequences for LR and the broader political scene in France. It remains to be seen how this development will impact the party’s electoral prospects and its ability to rally support from voters. The growing polarization within LR, exemplified by Ciotti’s defiance of the party’s decision, underscores the challenges facing traditional political parties in an increasingly fragmented and volatile political environment. As the French political landscape continues to evolve, the ramifications of Ciotti’s actions will reverberate throughout the party and beyond, shaping the future direction of LR and its role in French politics.
