Protests Against Police Violence Erupt in France Amid Ban on Memorial Rally

Dozens of marches against police violence have been planned in France for Saturday following the authorities’ ban on a memorial rally. The ban was imposed out of fear of reigniting the recent unrest that had engulfed the country. The planned commemorative march, led by the sister of Adama Traore, who died in police custody seven years ago, was scheduled to take place north of Paris. However, a court deemed the potential for public disturbance too high, resulting in the cancellation of the march.

Court Ruling Sparks Outrage

In a video shared on Twitter, Assa Traore, Adama’s sister, expressed her disappointment with the court’s decision, stating that the government had chosen not to respect the death of her brother and had added fuel to the fire. Instead of the canceled event, she announced her intention to attend a rally in central Paris to emphasize that even in death, their loved ones have the right to exist.

Nationwide Demonstrations Planned

Despite the ban, approximately 30 demonstrations against police violence are expected to take place across France, including cities like Lille, Marseille, Nantes, and Strasbourg. Trade unions, political parties, and associations have called on their supporters to join these marches, particularly in response to allegations of institutionalized racism within the police force.

Calls for Police Reforms

Campaign groups organizing the “citizens marches” aim to provide a platform for people to express their grief and anger over discriminatory police policies, especially in working-class neighborhoods. They are demanding reforms in policing tactics, the use of force, and weaponry. However, the government spokesperson criticized the organizations for convening demonstrations in cities that are still recovering from the recent unrest.