We revisit this episode simply because a few of our readers reproached us for ignoring it in our commentary articles on the “Der du Ray.” Some suggested it was intentional indulgence, a deviation from our ethos? And, as readers are the raison d’être of a newspaper, even atypical ones like ours, …an explanation!
Yes, it is true that Christian Estrosi, with an OGC Nice jersey on his shoulders, was at the head of the parade celebrating the last match of OGC Nice at the Ray stadium on Sunday. Indeed, the deputy mayor distinguished himself by waving a flare, an object prohibited* around stadiums…
And yes again, he does not hesitate to play the paladin of order against the Roma and other travelers, minors who go out without parents after 11 PM, those who want to buy alcoholic beverages during nighttime hours, newlyweds and their guests who demonstrate loudly after the ceremony, etc. In short, he is always at the forefront against those who do not follow the rules and any form of deceitful behavior.
A sort of Sheriff-Mayor, who advances in his action with the largest municipal police force in France and with one of the most modern and efficient video surveillance systems. And to express his passion for this field, he did not hesitate to reclaim the security portfolio withdrawn from Benoît Kandel in the Semiacs affair.
A first legal response: Was Christian Estrosi truly “around” the stadium as the law condemns when he brandished the famous flare?
Since he was neither checked nor fined, the question remains unanswered and “in dubio pro reo” as per legal tradition.
And then, let’s be realistic: Yes, we are all equal, but as the English writer George Orwell explains so well in his book “Animal Farm,” there is always someone who is more equal than others…
Thus, assuming a presumption of innocence for this act, one could raise a question of setting an example: A mayor, having been a minister multiple times, should he not be exemplary at all times and in all circumstances?
Again, a line of defense imposes itself and explains: Sunday was the big day for the last match of OGC Nice at the Ray stadium, the atmosphere in the Azurean city streets was at its peak, festive, warm, friendly. A deviation in behavior could be justified, especially since the flare was brandished proudly but without any dangerous intent. From Mayor to Mr. like-everyone-else…
And then, the truth is, our indulgence also came from the pleasure of seeing Mr. Mayor finally relaxed, smiling and not formal, dressed sportively like everyone else when going to the stadium and not like a spade ace as he always is, with his ministerial suits and regulation tie.
In short, perhaps that’s why when we saw him with the flare, we thought of “uno di noi” and not a dangerous “ultra.”
The Holy Church, in its wisdom knowing its flock for 2,000 years, extends the olive branch: “semel in anno licet insanire” said Saint Augustine. If …once a year we can be a fool… well, this flare might be justified.
And this “sin” of Christian Estrosi is downgraded to venial.
Having him recite the prayer “pateravegloria” ten times seems sufficient for absolution!
