The latest act by the mayor of Nice has, of course, sparked the traditional divide between those “for” and those “against,” but probably the aim, or aims, were different: First, to respond to the decision of the Ministry of the Interior not to include Nice among the high-risk cities for the Germany-Algeria match. The reason is simple: in case of incidents, who is responsible? Second, to appeal to the right-wing, far-right, and repatriated electorate who see the Algerian flag as the red muleta of the bullfighter.
As for the concerned comments from Robert Injey or Patrick Allemand, they need not worry. As always, attention to detail is crucial: The decree speaks of “ostentatious” use, which allows for a subjective assessment.
Belgian, German, or American supporters, mentioned by Patrick Allemand, will be able to express their joy without any restraint, of course!
The unspoken message (Subliminal, but not really that much) is clearly addressed.
In any case, even if the decree won’t be withdrawn, it will remain without consequence: Germany has beaten Algeria. No celebrations, no incidents, no more Algeria matches on the horizon.
The page has turned!
Reaction from Robert Injey (PCF): Estrosi: victim of a heatstroke?
By issuing a decree today (note: yesterday) to prohibit the “ostentatious use of foreign flags in downtown Nice (…) until the end of the World Cup,” the deputy mayor of Nice once again seeks to make headlines, at the risk of being ridiculed.
There are laws in this country, and there is no need for a decree from the mayor of Nice.
However, the aim of this decree, as in February 2013 to ban flags during weddings, is to further stigmatize a population.
That this decree is issued just hours before the Germany-Algeria match and the day after the FN leader’s declaration calling for the ban on dual nationality is no coincidence. As usual, Christian Estrosi rushes to “act” to prevent the Le Pen family from monopolizing xenophobia.
Yet another decision made in haste, recurrent with Christian Estrosi. The xenophobic nature also adds to the ridicule for a city preparing to host several matches of the European Cup in 2016. Will the “ostentatious use of foreign flags” be banned on this occasion?
Reaction from Patrick Allemand (PS): The decree taken by Christian Estrosi is an aberration. At best, it’s a mistake, at worst, a provocation.
In a region so touristy that welcomes people from all over the world in July, Nice would become the only city in France deprived of the “World Cup” atmosphere.
Tomorrow (note: today) the many Belgians and Americans in Nice will not be able to support their team with flags.
Mr. Estrosi is creating a buzz and manages to get noticed even during the World Cup soccer event. I urge him to withdraw this decree without delay.
