Hundreds of mourners gathered at Val-de-Grâce church in Paris on Thursday to pay their respects to Jean-Marie Le Pen, a prominent figure in France's far-right movement, known for his controversial remarks on race and antisemitism.
During the requiem Mass, a speaker commended Le Pen for recognizing the dangers facing France, while a choir performed a military song invoking divine strength for battle. Attendees recited a prayer to Joan of Arc, emphasizing a vision of France as a Christian nation.
Le Pen passed away on January 7 at the age of 96, prompting a national debate regarding the respect he merits posthumously, given his history of inflammatory comments and his minimization of Holocaust atrocities.
The discussion surrounding his legacy highlights ongoing tensions related to the National Rally, the party he co-founded in 1972, which has transitioned from the political fringes to a central role in French politics, currently holding the most seats in the National Assembly.
Despite their electoral success, National Rally leaders express frustration over their perceived lack of respect from other lawmakers, who often exclude them from policy discussions and leadership roles.
In a recent television interview, a government minister openly stated his lack of respect for the National Rally, reflecting the broader political climate.
Efforts to gain respect have been a priority for the National Rally, especially under the leadership of Marine Le Pen, who succeeded her father in 2011 and distanced the party from his legacy. The party rebranded in 2018 to attract a broader voter base with its anti-immigrant and law-and-order policies.
However, public reactions to Le Pen's death were mixed, with celebrations occurring in various cities, where some protesters expressed their disdain for his legacy.
Criticism of these celebrations came from members of the current government, who condemned the public displays of joy over Le Pen's passing.
Le Pen's death coincides with significant political instability in France, characterized by economic challenges and a fragmented National Assembly. The recent collapse of the government led by former Prime Minister Michel Barnier was partly attributed to the National Rally's actions.
The party's future strategy remains uncertain, but its potential opposition to the current government could threaten its stability.
While the public tribute to Le Pen may pose short-term challenges for the National Rally, experts suggest that it was a necessary acknowledgment of his influence within the party's history.
The Mass highlighted Le Pen's dedication to France and his military service, with the officiating priest acknowledging his complex legacy.
As mourners departed the church, they were met with chants from the European left, underscoring the ongoing ideological divisions within French society.