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Home » French MPs Play ‘Rock-Paper-Scissors’ to Avoid Handshakes, Highlighting Political Tensions

French MPs Play ‘Rock-Paper-Scissors’ to Avoid Handshakes, Highlighting Political Tensions

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.

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.