French president faced harsh criticism after he threatened vaccine-resistant citizens saying he would pressure them as much as possible
The President of France – Emmanuel Macron has warned he will make the life difficult for people in France who have not been vaccinated against Coronavirus (COVID-19).
While he said he won’t vaccinate people by force, he would encourage people to get vaccinated by limiting the access of unvaccinated people to public life. Macron’s strong words have been criticized by opponents as the strong language he used in the interview was not worthy of a President. The legislation was expected to be approved in a vote this week, but it has angered vaccine opponents and several French MPs have said they have received death threats over the issue.
His remarks compelled the Member of Parliaments (MPS) to suspend the debate on a proposed law which restricts the unvaccinated people from much of the public life. This was the second time in a row when the debate was halted owing to language used by Macron.
Speaking to media, Macron said, “I really want to hassle them, and we will continue to do this – to the end.”
He further said, “I won’t send [unvaccinated people] to prison. So we need to tell them, from 15 January, you will no longer be able to go to the restaurant. You will no longer be able to go for a coffee, you will no longer be able to go to the theatre. You will no longer be able to go to the cinema.”
One of the main candidates for the Presidency – Valérie Pécresse of the Republicans, said she was outraged that the President had accused unvaccinated people of not being citizens.
She told reporters, “You have to accept them as they are – lead them, bring them together and not insult them.” Far-right leader – Marine le Pen said, “A president shouldn’t say that… Emmanuel Macron is unworthy of his office.” The Left politician – Jean-Luc Mélenchon also termed macron’s remarks as an “astonishing confession”.
Till now, people were allowed to access public places if they had a proof of vaccination or a negative RT-PCR Report. However, the negative report will no longer help them to access public places. France has one of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the European Union (E.U.), with more than 90% of the adult population double-jabbed.
What’s important, Macron’s harsh words could prove fatal in his re-run as the President of France. His term is ending in March 2022. He is still yet to formally declare he will stand for a second term.
