Jakarta, ThedailyID — French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised to deploy a large police force ahead of demonstrations scheduled for this weekend. The announcement follows criticism of the government’s handling of violent protests last weekend.
Lecornu acknowledged that previous security measures had been inadequate. He made the admission while facing questions from lawmakers on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
“Police deployments for this coming Saturday will be substantial,” Lecornu said, according to AFP.
The prime minister also accused radical left-wing groups of preparing an alleged “insurrection plan” that contributed to the unrest. However, some analysts have argued that immigration was not the main cause of the violence.
The unrest erupted during nationwide demonstrations over the rising cost of living. Around 500,000 people reportedly took to the streets across France before clashes and looting broke out on Saturday, October 17.
During the violence, protesters set fire to several shops and public buildings. The unrest also prompted the United States, China, and Germany to issue travel advisories for their citizens in France.
In response, the French government tightened security measures. On Monday, October 19, authorities announced partial curfews in Paris and several other cities.
Lecornu said additional curfews would apply wherever officials considered tighter restrictions necessary. In Paris, restrictions began at 9 p.m. GMT on Tuesday, October 20, covering Place de la République and the Les Halles shopping district.
Authorities also banned public gatherings along the Champs-Élysées, an area near government buildings and several railway stations. Police temporarily prohibited people from carrying jerrycans or bottles containing gasoline and other fuels.
These measures followed weekend attacks in which protesters reportedly set fire to government buildings and shops.
The government now faces pressure to prevent further violence as demonstrations continue. The planned police deployment is intended to strengthen security ahead of the next round of protests.
