Laurent Jacobelli, deputy for the National Rally (RN), recently expressed criticism concerning the management of the crisis in Mayotte by President Emmanuel Macron, by calling the latter to “be in the announcement”. This declaration raises several issues linked to the particular situation of the island, to the expectations of the inhabitants and to the responsibilities of political actors.
Mayotte, a French archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, was recently struck by Cyclone Chido, leaving important destruction behind. The consequences of this natural phenomenon have highlighted the structural vulnerabilities of the island, where fragile infrastructure coexist with fundamental socio-economic issues. In this context, the visit of President Macron, which took place four months after the cyclone, raises questions about the effectiveness of the measures taken and announced.
The term “announcement” used by Jacobelli could be interpreted as a criticism of political communication. Leaders can sometimes get carried away in attractive promises, articulated by an enthusiastic speech, but which are struggling to materialize on the field. This discrepancy between advertisements and tangible results is a recurring question in French politics, especially during crisis situations. He invites us to reflect on how the State can meet immediate needs while projecting a long -term vision for territories often on the fringes of the national debate.
Relations between Mayotte and the Comoros, his neighboring country, add additional complexity to this situation. Jacobelli mentioned the financial support granted to the Comorian archipelago, raising concerns about the balance between international aid and local needs. The question of regional solidarity is delicate. How to define priorities when resources are limited and local issues are pressing?
Jacobelli’s criticism must also be put into perspective with the role of the State in crisis management. President Macron, and his government, must juggle between security imperatives, restoration of essential services, and preservation of social cohesion. The expectations of the Mahorais in terms of assistance and reconstruction are high. How can we meet these expectations without falling into the “announcement” trap which does not result in actions?
In addition, the death of Pope Francis was mentioned by Jacobelli, calling him as a religious leader “close to the people, close to the field”. This could also echo a demand for proximity and listening on the part of political leaders, a requirement to which the political class, in particular the actors in the field, should ensure to answer. The values of solidarity, humility and proximity are often requested in moments of crisis, and dialogue between policies and citizens then becomes crucial.
This situation in Mayotte is therefore not just a simple local issue, but a broader illustration of the challenges that the leaders are faced in the management of crises across the country. It also encourages each party to consider collective and concrete solutions, beyond simple political ads. The search for a balance between the immediate needs of the inhabitants and the promises of the government can only be achieved through a constructive dialogue and actions solidly anchored in the realities on the ground.
In conclusion, the criticism formulated by Laurent Jacobelli invites to a deeper reflection on the expectations of the overseas territories, the responsibilities of the rulers, and the need for a real commitment which is expressed through clear and measurable actions. This opens the way to a constructive discussion on the role of the State, interregional relations and support for often forgotten communities.