The tomb of Robert Badinter, a prominent figure in the abolition of the death penalty, was recently vandalized in Bagneux, Paris. This act of desecration occurred just hours before a ceremony to honor his legacy at the Panthéon.
Reactions to the Desecration of Badinter’s Tomb
Political leaders from across the spectrum have condemned the vandalism. French President Emmanuel Macron was among the first to respond, expressing outrage on social media. He stated, “Shame on those who sought to tarnish his memory.” Macron emphasized the resilience of the Republic against hatred.
Olivier Faure, the head of the Socialist Party, also expressed disdain, labeling the act an “ignoble aggression.” He remarked that “the ideas do not die.” Meanwhile, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of La France Insoumise, referred to the vandalism as an “ignoble action by the extreme right” against Badinter’s tomb.
Local and Political Responses
- The municipality of Bagneux noted that the grave was defaced with graffiti insulting Badinter’s fight against the death penalty and for the decriminalization of homosexuality.
- Boris Vallaud, head of the Socialist deputies, stated that the extreme right has long opposed Badinter’s beliefs and continues to besmirch his memory.
- Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, condemned the act as a “deed of cowardice and indignity.” She confirmed that the city filed a report with the prosecutor.
- Marine Tondelier, leader of the Ecologists, remarked that the messages on the tomb leave little doubt about the political motives behind this shocking act.
- Yaël Braun-Pivet, president of the National Assembly, called the desecration “revolting” and an affront to the memory of the Republic.
- Gérard Larcher, president of the Republicans in the Senate, described this incident as yet another unbearable act of profanation.
- Jordan Bardella, leader of the National Rally, demanded strong condemnation and sanctions against this ignoble act.
Upcoming Ceremony at the Panthéon
In light of these events, the ceremony at the Panthéon to commemorate Robert Badinter will be a crucial moment. It will serve not only to honor his contributions but also to reaffirm the principles he championed. The widespread condemnation from political leaders signals the importance of protecting the legacy of individuals who have made significant contributions to French society.
