TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Around 17,000 French citizens from 50 organizations protested on the streets of Paris, yesterday. In the "day of rage" protest they carry banners, some of them are written "President, Resign" and "People of France in Enraged!"
The protesters moved from Place de la Bastille towards Les Invalides. They criticize the French economy, high unemployment rate, tax policies, housing, and lack of personal privacy. Johan Bonnain, one of the protesters said that they have taken away their money from all aspects and that there are always new taxes that have to be paid, as reported by Russia Today.
The protesters say that Hollande's policies are sluggish, including the ones that permit gay marriage last year. Some even urged France to step out of the European Union.
There were also protesters who complained about Hollande’s love life. Last Saturday, Hollande announced his separation from the First lady of France Valerie Trierweiler, who has accompanied him for the past 7 years. Their relationship was shattered after Hollande’s affair with actress Julie Gayet was made public. Protesters said the president has too many scandals and is a disgrace to France. An orator said the French leader is busier with his affairs rather than solving the unemployment problems.
The protest ended in a clash between police and the protesters. Police dispersed the protesters with tear gas. Hundreds of protesters throw rocks, fireworks, steel bars, and trash cans at the police. The police captured at least 250 people. As many as 19 officers were injured, one suffered a serious injury. The protesters claim that there were more than 120,000 people attending the rally.
THE GLOBAL POST | FOX | AP | REUTERS | NATALIA SANTI