Introduction
Kylian Mbappé, the captain of France’s national soccer team, has labeled the first round of the French elections as “catastrophic” after the far-right anti-immigration party National Rally (RN) took the lead. As Les Bleus prepare for their Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Portugal, Mbappé has called on the French public to mobilize and vote in the second round.
Mbappé’s Call to Action
Mbappé, speaking at a media conference in Hamburg, emphasized the urgency of voting against the RN. “There’s an emergency, we can’t let our country in the hands of these people, it’s really urgent,” he stated. The soccer star stressed that “now more than ever” it was essential for the public to vote to prevent the far-right from gaining power.
Political Uncertainty in France
President Emmanuel Macron’s unexpected decision in June to call snap parliamentary elections has thrown France into political turmoil. Last Sunday’s elections saw a high voter turnout, with the RN securing 33.15% of the vote, the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) coalition coming in second, and Macron’s party falling to third place. If the RN gains power, it would mark the first time a far-right party has been in the French government since World War II.
Second Round of Voting
The second round of voting is set for this coming Sunday. Mbappé expressed hope that the public would mobilize and vote to make the right choice. “We really hope that it’ll change and that everyone will mobilize to vote and make the right choice,” he urged.
Mbappé’s Political Stance
Mbappé has been vocal about French politics while with the national team at Euro 2024. Last month, he addressed the media, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the current political situation in France. “We see the extremes are knocking on the door of power and we have the opportunity to shape our country’s future,” he said.
Mbappé’s Personal Values
Mbappé, whose family hails from Algeria and Cameroon, has expressed his reluctance to represent a country that does not align with his values. His comments reflect a broader concern about the direction France might take under far-right leadership.
Support from Teammate Jules Kounde
Mbappé’s teammate, Jules Kounde, also shared his political views during a media conference at the Euros. Kounde, a French Beninese national, voiced his disappointment with the support for the RN. “I believe it’s important to block the extreme right, the National Rally, because this party will not lead our country towards more freedom,” Kounde told journalists after France’s last-16 match against Belgium.
Conclusion
With the second round of voting approaching, both Mbappé and Kounde have highlighted the importance of mobilizing against the far-right. Their statements underscore the critical role of the upcoming elections in shaping the future of France.(747Live)
