The office of Antoine Golliot, National Rally (RN) deputy for Pas-de-Calais’ 5th constituency, was targeted with inflammatory graffiti after the death of Jean-Marie Le Pen, co-founder of the National Front (now RN). Vandals scrawled phrases such as “JMLP dead, let’s kill the RN,” “RIP Bozo,” and other hostile slogans on the office’s windows and doors.
Golliot condemned the vandalism, calling it a disgraceful attack on his work and the memory of the deceased. Sharing photos on social media, he wrote, “Last night, my parliamentary tenure was once again degraded. These cowardly acts are unacceptable, especially since they attack the memory of a deceased person.”
The graffiti appeared hours after Jean-Marie Le Pen passed away at 96. Golliot had previously honored Le Pen in a Facebook post, hailing him as an “extraordinary and visionary politician” whose dedication brought nationalist ideas into mainstream French politics. He credited Le Pen’s perseverance with inspiring hope among millions of French citizens.
Le Pen’s death sparked fierce reactions across the political spectrum. In Paris and Lyon, far-left activists openly celebrated, launching fireworks and chanting derogatory slogans. Arrests followed in both cities, with seven detained in Lyon and three in Paris during disruptive gatherings.
The French government quickly called for decorum in response to the unrest. Government spokesperson Sophie Primas urged restraint and dignity during a Council of Ministers briefing. She remarked, “Death, even of an enemy, deserves respect,” while acknowledging her disagreement with Le Pen’s political positions.
Primas pointed to Le Pen’s own example when Jacques Chirac passed away, noting that even in opposition, he advocated for respect. Her message sought to counter the vitriol surrounding the polarizing figure’s death, emphasizing that dignity should prevail, even amidst deep political divides.
Golliot vowed to press on with his work for the people of Boulonnais, undeterred by the attacks. “Democratic debate must remain respectful,” he stated, promising to continue serving his constituency with determination.
The incident underscores the deep fault lines in French society, where even in death, a figure like Jean-Marie Le Pen continues to ignite intense emotions on all sides. While some mourn his legacy as a nationalist pioneer, others use his passing as a platform for hostile dissent, leaving France grappling with its fractured political landscape.
