French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday that demonstrations deemed “illegitimate” would be banned in the coming days, while authorized marches organized by trade unions could be redirected to protect businesses and public buildings amid fears of renewed unrest across the country.

Speaking after meeting intelligence officials and senior ministers at the Élysée Palace, Macron blamed what he described as “seditious” ultra-left groups and vandals for riots and looting that erupted during protests last Saturday.

“Political and seditious acts” by organized ultra-left groups had sought to undermine the French Republic, Macron said, adding that authorities would take further measures to restore calm and prevent a repeat of the violence.

Under the announced approach, regional government representatives known as prefects will assess requests for demonstrations. Marches organized by trade unions may be permitted along alternative routes, while gatherings organized by groups considered to lack legitimacy could be prohibited.

The measures come as French authorities prepare for further demonstrations over rising living costs, fuel prices and concerns about public services and education. Officials have warned of another potentially volatile weekend, with student groups, trade unions and the Yellow Vest movement among those planning further mobilization.

Authorities have already prohibited demonstrations in several major cities, including Marseille and Lyon, ahead of Saturday’s planned rallies. Restrictions have also been imposed on gatherings in parts of Paris, while overnight curfews have been introduced in some areas following the recent violence.

Businesses in central Paris have begun boarding up shopfronts, and luxury goods group Hermès has increased security at its French stores. Organizers of the Art Basel Paris art fair have also announced that the event will remain closed over the weekend.

French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has called for tougher penalties for people who defy protest bans, including possible suspension of voting rights and restrictions on social media access for individuals involved in violence, looting or attacks on police. Any such measures would require appropriate legal procedures.

The government has also acknowledged shortcomings in anticipating the scale of last weekend’s unrest. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez offered his resignation following criticism of the security response, but Macron rejected it and called for greater transparency over intelligence and planning failures.

The unrest has exposed wider public frustration over the cost of living, household budgets, fuel prices and the state of public services. Student groups have also raised concerns about school conditions and education funding.

While the government has focused on restoring order and holding those responsible for violence accountable, opposition figures have criticized its handling of the crisis. Some have accused the authorities of failing to anticipate the unrest, while others have warned that broad restrictions on demonstrations risk undermining the right to peaceful protest.

The latest developments add to mounting political pressure on Macron’s government as it seeks to prevent further violence while responding to public anger over economic and social conditions.

Authorities are expected to maintain heightened security measures in the coming days as France braces for further demonstrations. (ILKHA)