France’s minister delegate to the Interior Ministry warned Thursday that the government was maintaining a “maximum level of vigilance” ahead of nationwide demonstrations planned for Oct. 24, and did not rule out banning further gatherings.
“We are at a maximum level of vigilance” for Oct. 24, Jean-Didier Berger told broadcaster BFMTV.
He said the government “absolutely rules nothing out in the coming days and weeks” if it deems it necessary to ban gatherings or cultural and sporting events.
Berger also said the deployment of security forces on Saturday would be “20% higher” than on Oct. 17.
“We have canceled leave. We have recalled people who were supposed to be on leave and who will no longer be,” he explained.
Sentinelle forces will also be deployed, along with special units such as the GIGN and RAID.
Nationwide protests took place on Oct. 17 over the cost of living and fuel prices, involving Yellow Vest demonstrators and students. Authorities reported damage to businesses and public buildings, prompting localized curfews in several cities.
Further demonstrations are planned for Oct. 24, while unions have called for a nationwide strike and protest day on Nov. 5.
Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron summoned “all intelligence services” to the Elysee Palace, which were accused of failing to anticipate the mobilization on Oct. 17.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu and “the ministers concerned” also attended the security meeting.
