Story perspectives

Mayor Bagayoko Faces Racism; 20,000 Rally for Justice

4/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bally Bagayoko, left-wing mayor of Saint-Denis, faced racist abuse after his March 15 victory.
A rally against racism drew about 20,000 supporters, including Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who condemned the wave of racism.
Bagayoko filed a legal complaint against CNews for disparaging remarks aired on air.
Investigations into racist comments on social media and national television are underway.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu denounces the normalization of evil and racism.

1 of 1

Story summary

Bally Bagayoko, left-wing mayor of Saint-Denis, faced racist abuse after his March 15 victory.
A rally against racism drew about 20,000 supporters, including Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who condemned the wave of racism.
Bagayoko filed a legal complaint against CNews for disparaging remarks aired on air.
Investigations into racist comments on social media and national television are underway.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu denounces the normalization of evil and racism.