Thousands join Paris protests as authorities clamp down on disorder

Clashes erupted in Paris and other French cities on Saturday (Oct 24) during demonstrations held a week after prior protests that turned violent, prompting a heavy security presence ahead of upcoming elections. Paris authorities deployed 70,000 security forces for the marches aimed at protesting the high cost of living. Police fired tear gas and deployed batons in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Montpellier, and Nantes.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned against violence, emphasizing the government's commitment to restoring order. The unrest, while less violent by nightfall, reflected widespread anger and discontent, with estimates suggesting between 410,000 and 800,000 participants nationwide. Main demonstrations in Paris saw 110,000 to 250,000 attendees.

Macron's government ordered police to prevent protesters from reaching city centers and imposed curfews in certain urban zones. The unrest echoed the previous week's disruptions, which included vandalism, lootings, and arrests. Anger at Macron's security measures was palpable, with some protesters accusing him of trampling on the right to protest.

Far-right candidate Marine Le Pen's party opened a congress to launch her presidential campaign, drawing thousands of anti-fascist protesters.