Mathilde Panot sparks controversy over Octobre Rose refusal

Mathilde Panot, president of the La France Insoumise (LFI) parliamentary group, has sparked significant political controversy after announcing her refusal to wear the pink ribbon for the 'Octobre Rose' breast cancer awareness campaign.

In a video shared on social media, Panot characterized cancer as a 'political disease' resulting from political choices. She criticized multinational corporations, specifically targeting Syngenta and its Israeli subsidiary Adama. Panot alleged that these companies are involved in the production of pesticides and linked them to Israeli colonial expansion, claiming they contribute to the destruction of Palestinian and Lebanese lands. She stated, “We do not want an Octobre Rose, but an Octobre colère” (October anger).

The remarks drew sharp rebukes from government officials. Minister of Health Stéphanie Rist defended the symbol, stating that the pink ribbon is a tool for mobilization and solidarity that represents the commitment to women and families. Aurore Bergé, Minister for Equality between Women and Men, also criticized the move, accusing Panot of instrumentalizing the cancer awareness campaign.