Macron's jet ski photos spark outrage in France amid heatwaves and fires

President Emmanuel Macron has ignited controversy with a series of photographs depicting him enjoying water sports, including riding a jet ski, amidst a summer marked by severe heatwaves and widespread fires across France. The images, published in the weekly magazine Paris Match, have drawn sharp criticism, primarily from left-wing political opponents.

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The French are suffering an 'apocalyptic summer' and 'our president allows himself, therefore, a publicity stunt about his holidays'.

Marine Tondelier, leader of the Ecologists party, derided the publication as a "publicity stunt" while the nation grappled with what she described as an "apocalyptic summer." She sarcastically questioned Macron's priorities, juxtaposing his jet ski activities with the "deaths caused by five heatwaves, a drought, and historic fires."

Socialist Party First Secretary Olivier Faure echoed these sentiments, questioning the message conveyed by the president's leisure activities. "During the heatwave, when France is burning, when a part of the French people could not go on vacation, the president is having fun on a jet ski in Brégançon. Is that the message? What a success," he quipped.

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Emmanuel Macron: 'Have you seen my huge jet ski? Doesn't it go fast?'

Macron's entourage pushed back against the criticism, asserting that the photographer had no "authorized access" and that "stolen photos of the president" have been released annually for the past nine years. They also indicated that Macron spent his time at the Brégançon presidential fort on the French Riviera working, often on the phone, with a dedicated office set up for his duties. The photo spread also featured him engaging in other water sports like surf foiling.

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During the heatwave, when France is burning, when a part of the French people could not go on vacation, the president is having fun on a jet ski in Brégançon. Is that the message? What a success.