On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of François Mitterrand’s election as President of the Republic, Patrick Allemand, First Secretary of the Socialist Federation of the Alpes-Maritimes, gathered the socialists of the Azurean region for a commemorative event.
A quite large audience gathered on Rue Biscarra to visit the photographic exhibition retracing the life of the late President, listen to the words of the Azurean Socialist leader, and celebrate this anniversary in a friendly and convivial atmosphere.
Nice Premium: What are your feelings on this occasion?
Patrick Allemand: This is an evening of memories, nostalgia, but also hope for the next presidential election, which we all hope will be a new victory.
NP: Was it a successful evening for you…
PA: Absolutely. There was a great mobilization by the activists. I see many people, both young and old. I haven’t seen some of them for years, their presence is a good sign.
NP: What is your evaluation of François Mitterrand’s political figure?
PA: We are talking about an election from 30 years ago, but we are already in a historical perspective. The figure and legacy of Mitterrand compel us to speak of him in these terms.
NP: What comparison would you make with current politics?
PA: Mitterrand was a true reformer in social and economic fields. Just think of the abolition of the death penalty, measures for women, the law for press freedom, and the creation of private radio stations. We also owe him the decentralization law in favor of local governments.
And let’s not forget his concern to always pair economic efficiency with social justice.
NP: Do you think his foreign policy was resolutely pro-European?
PA: He had a very forward-thinking vision, and his collaboration and personal affinity with Chancellor Kohl were the basis for a developed European construction. They were both true “statesmen” and opened the way to break out of the frozen USA-USSR bipolarism with the reunification of “the two” Germanys and the end of the Soviet Union, which were the two preconditions for this. Again with significant support to Gorbachev, who was the “internal” author.
NP: Do you have a final word on this “special” day?
PA: François Mitterrand was a giant, his actions are increasingly part of history. Looking at the present, the comparison to his current successor is striking and unequivocal. It is the duty of socialists to be worthy of this legacy and work so that socialist ideals can once again be the protagonists of French and European politics.
