The mayors of Haute-Vienne have issued a solemn appeal to defend the Republic amidst a worrying democratic crisis. They highlight their role as primary contacts for citizens and their inability to solely bear challenges beyond their scope and resources as trust in institutions wanes.
The recent fire at the town hall in Limoges served as a stark reminder of the seriousness of violence and attacks against public buildings, which symbolize the common home of citizens and republican values. The elected officials strongly condemn all forms of violence, while affirming the legitimacy of peaceful protests.
This appeal aims to preserve the connection between citizens, their representatives, and the Republic. The mayors emphasize respect, dialogue, and responsibility to prevent anger from escalating into violence and to avoid deepening societal fractures. They stress that local officials cannot simultaneously be the Republic's first line of defense daily and its last bulwark against a destabilizing crisis.
As a sign of concern and exasperation, municipal flags will be flown at half-mast on Friday, October 23rd, coinciding with the visit of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu. This solemn gesture serves as an alarm signal to the state, urging it to listen to the territories and provide adequate responses.
The mayors assert that the Republic lives within its communes, and when town halls are weakened, the entire Republic falters.
