Cyclone-hit Mayotte: Backlash to Macron’s Remarks

 The president’s comments sparked criticism from opposition lawmakers in metropolitan France. Sébastien Chenu, a far-right National Rally (RN) lawmaker, called the remarks inappropriate, saying they perpetuated a sense of alienation among Mayotte residents. Hard-left lawmaker Éric Coquerel labeled Macron’s statement “completely undignified.”

In response, Macron dismissed the criticism, claiming some protestors were aligned with RN political militants. He defended France’s efforts, stating that his government was working to address the crisis and counter a narrative of neglect.

Authorities have distributed 80 tons of food and 50 tons of water to nine of Mayotte’s 17 communes, with provisions for the remaining areas underway. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced measures to provide 600,000 liters of water daily—two liters per resident. However, residents in affected areas, particularly shantytowns home to undocumented migrants, remain without clean water or adequate supplies.

While officials have confirmed 35 deaths in Mayotte, they fear the actual toll could be much higher. Many fatalities occurred in hillside shantytowns made of flimsy materials, which rescue workers have struggled to access.

Cyclone Chido’s impact extended beyond Mayotte, claiming at least 73 lives in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi.

Mayotte has long grappled with challenges tied to its unique status as a French territory in the Indian Ocean. Its population of over 321,000 includes a significant number of undocumented migrants from neighboring Comoros and Madagascar, straining local infrastructure and fueling tensions. Concerns over immigration have also bolstered the RN’s influence in Mayotte, with 60% of voters supporting Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff.

Macron extended his visit to Mayotte to assess the damage and oversee relief efforts, emphasizing that France has invested heavily in the territory. However, he acknowledged that the region’s institutions were struggling to cope with the influx of migrants and the scale of the disaster.

After leading a crisis meeting, Macron departed for Djibouti, where he is set to celebrate Christmas with French troops stationed there.

Despite the relief measures underway, residents like Ali Djimoi from Kaweni remain skeptical. “Mayotte has been completely abandoned,” he said. “The water running from pipes is dirty. Even when it works, you can’t drink it.”

As France’s response continues to unfold, Macron’s visit underscores the broader challenges of governance and equity in its overseas territories, particularly in times of crisis.