Jean-Luc Mélenchon denounces systemic racism amid legal challenges for LFI officials

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the La France insoumise (LFI) party, has accused the media and political establishment of “systemic racism” following legal challenges against two LFI officials in Seine-Saint-Denis.

Bally Bagayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis, is facing a complaint from the association AC !! Anti-Corruption regarding allegations of fictitious employment and misappropriation of public funds. The allegations suggest a conflict between his role at the RATP and his position as a local official; however, the RATP has denied any involvement in such employment arrangements, and Bagayoko has denied the claims.

Aly Diouara, the mayor of La Courneuve, is facing accusations regarding the improper occupation of social housing. Mélenchon argued on social media that these attacks are part of a political struggle against Black LFI representatives, citing previous instances involving other party members.