French Communist leader calls to 'get rid' of Macron and his policies

Fabien Roussel, the national secretary of the French Communist Party (PCF), urged a "social and ecological revolution" to dismantle the current financial oligarchy during the party's summer university in Toulouse. He called for a decisive break from Emmanuel Macron's policies and "all those who wish to continue implementing them, from the right to the far-right."

Roussel outlined an ambitious program aimed at empowering the left to regain a majority in France and restore hope. Key proposals include raising the minimum wage (SMIC) to 1,700 euros net, implementing a 5% increase across all salaries, and significantly boosting funding for public services such as hospitals, schools, and nursing homes (EHPADs). He also advocated for the installation of two million heat pumps annually and the sale of one million low-cost electric vehicles, emphasizing the relocation of production within France.

The PCF leader is preparing for a presidential bid, with his official candidacy expected in early September following his re-election to lead the party. The summer university serves as a crucial platform for his campaign, with a major address planned at the Fête de l'Humanité in mid-September. His positioning comes amid political maneuvering within the French left, particularly concerning his party's relationship with Jean-Luc Mélenchon's La France Insoumise (LFI), which has previously accused the PCF of hindering Mélenchon's chances in the 2022 presidential election.

Roussel's platform emphasizes a departure from what he terms the "oligarchy" and a focus on economic justice and environmental action. His calls for increased wages, public investment, and green initiatives aim to resonate with voters seeking alternatives to the current political and economic landscape. The party's summer gathering highlighted a clear intention to present a distinct and transformative vision for France.