Skoda's new Kylaq SUV enters production amid rising demand

In France, François Bayrou, appointed as Prime Minister just days before, is facing backlash for attending a town hall meeting in Pau rather than being present in Mayotte, where Cyclone Chido has caused severe devastation. On December 16, 2024, the crisis in Mayotte escalated, with reports indicating that hundreds are feared dead due to the cyclone's impact. While Bayrou attended a crisis meeting via video conference with President Emmanuel Macron, his decision to prioritize his municipal duties in Pau has been seen as a significant misstep. Within a day of his appointment, Bayrou's actions have drawn sharp criticism from various political factions. Yaël Braun-Pivet, speaker of the Assemblée Nationale, expressed disappointment, stating that in times of such catastrophe, it is crucial for leadership to be present with the affected people. Other political figures, including Mathilde Panot from the hard-left faction, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the prime minister failed to grasp the symbolic importance of his absence from Mayotte. Opponents argue that this behavior reflects a pattern of neglect towards the overseas territory, which has struggled for years with political abandonment. As he navigates this contentious beginning to his premiership, Bayrou has yet to form a full government; previous ministers are serving in a caretaker capacity. His role as both mayor of Pau and prime minister raises questions about prioritization of responsibilities, especially during an unprecedented crisis in Mayotte. Observers note that he must act decisively to address this backlash and effectively govern, as public sentiment becomes increasingly sensitive. This situation also places President Macron in a position to support Bayrou or possibly reconsider his cabinet choices as public pressure mounts. As the events unfold, many are left wondering about the implications of Bayrou’s dual role within the French political landscape and how he will balance local governance with national leadership during crises.