Official statements from major French political parties

LFI's Ugo Bernalicis Seeks to Abolish Article 421-2-5 on Glorifying Terrorism Amid Samuel Paty Trial

Nov 23, 2024, 02:25 PM

La France Insoumise (LFI), a French political party, has proposed a law to abolish Article 421-2-5 of the penal code, which defines the offense of 'apologie du terrorisme' (glorification of terrorism). Deputy Ugo Bernalicis submitted the proposal on November 19, arguing that the law threatens freedom of expression and has been misapplied since October 7. The proposal comes during the trial of Samuel Paty, a teacher killed in a terrorist attack. The move has sparked widespread criticism and indignation from other political figures and parties, who accuse LFI of undermining efforts to combat terrorism and of being allied with Islamists. Bruno Retailleau described the proposal as 'difficult to make more ignoble,' while Arno Klarsfeld suggested LFI is 'rolling out the red carpet for the enemies of France.' Nathalie Loiseau reaffirmed her stance of 'neither LFI nor RN,' denouncing the proposal. Nicolas Dupont-Aignan accused LFI of being 'fanatics of chaos' with 'no limits.'