Last Updated on 22/07/2024 by wccexam Desk
A recent incident in the French National Assembly has drawn attention to the growing political tensions in France, particularly between left-wing and far-right factions. During a parliamentary session on July 18, newly elected MP Flavien Termet from the National Rally party, which is led by Marine Le Pen, extended his hand for a handshake, only to be met with refusal from several left-wing MPs.
The Rock-Paper-Scissors Gesture
In a moment that has since gone viral, left-wing MP François Piquemal, representing the La France Insoumise party, creatively employed a game of rock-paper-scissors to avoid shaking hands with Termet. As Termet stood by a ballot box, Piquemal mimicked the hand gestures of the game instead of engaging in a handshake, a symbolic act reflecting the deep divisions within the French political landscape. Other left-wing representatives also avoided physical contact, reinforcing their stance against the far-right party.
Context of the Incident
The incident occurred during the first session of the newly elected assembly, a traditional setting where the oldest MP chairs the session and the youngest serves as secretary. Termet, at just 22 years old, is the youngest member of the National Assembly and was expected to shake hands with other MPs as part of parliamentary etiquette. However, the refusal from left-wing MPs highlights the contentious atmosphere following recent elections, where no single party has achieved a clear majority, resulting in a fragmented legislature.
Political Implications
The refusal to shake hands is emblematic of the broader political climate in France, where the National Rally has gained significant traction, particularly in recent elections. The left-wing coalition, known as the New Popular Front, which includes various leftist parties, has expressed strong opposition to the far-right’s influence in the assembly. Piquemal’s actions and the accompanying social media commentary, such as his statement, “Shake hands with a racist party? Never,” underline the ideological rift that characterizes current French politics.
- Kimberly Cheatle Steps Down as Secret Service Chief Amid Security Failure at Trump Rally
- Today’s latest news: Aaj Ki Taza Khabar, big news of 24 July 2024, breaking news, Hindi news live and main news – Aaj Ki Taza Khabar 24 July 2024 today latest hindi news aaj ka hindi samachar live updates
- NEET-UG: I will have to remove you from the court, I am warning you… CJI got angry at the lawyer after a heated argument- Heated argument between CJI and the lawyer during the hearing on NEET-UG 2024
- Bhutan’s King and Prime Minister visited Adani’s Khavda project, Mundra Port
- ‘It is wrong to declare Constitution Murder Day…’ Petition filed, High Court seeks response from the Centre
This incident not only serves as a light-hearted moment captured on video but also reflects the serious and ongoing political divisions in France. As the country prepares for the upcoming Paris Olympics, the political landscape remains fraught with tension, and the dynamics within the National Assembly will likely continue to evolve as parties navigate their positions in this divided legislature.