The mayor of Nice, France, has criticized Victor Wembanyama, the French-born NBA star, for supporting the ongoing protest movement in France. In a post on social media, Mayor Ciotti accused Wembanyama of encouraging unrest and bearing a "historic responsibility" for the situation. The protests began in September with high school students demanding better conditions in French schools, but have since expanded into a broader movement against government spending cuts, drawing support from university students, labor unions, and members of France's "Yellow Vest" movement.
The protests escalated significantly on October 17, with an estimated 550,000 to 800,000 people participating in demonstrations across France. Rioters broke out in several major cities, including Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, clashing with police, setting fires, damaging public buildings, and looting businesses. Wembanyama had previously expressed support for the protests, stating that he was "glad that high school students, young people in general, are making their voices heard" and that he "support[s] them."
However, Wembanyama has not publicly commented on the protests since the widespread violence on October 17. Mayor Ciotti's criticism of Wembanyama suggests that some in France are questioning the role of celebrities in supporting the protests. Wembanyama's comments on social media and in press conferences have been seen as a departure from the traditional approach of NBA players, who often avoid taking public stances on politics.
The protests in France have been ongoing for several weeks, with demonstrators demanding better conditions in schools, an end to government spending cuts, and other social and economic reforms. The situation has been marked by widespread violence and clashes between protesters and police.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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