In Avignon, Mayor Olivier Galzi refuses to shake hands with Raphaël Arnault and stands by his "republican" gesture.

Avignon's new mayor, Olivier Galzi, sparked controversy during the May 8th commemorations by refusing to shake hands with LFI (France Unbowed) MP Raphaël Arnault. The former journalist fully embraced this symbolic gesture, explaining that the day represents "the victory of the return of politics over violence" and denouncing what he considers the militant legacy of the former leader of the Jeune Garde (Young Guard), a far-left movement dissolved after several violent incidents.

For the center-right mayor, republican ceremonies "must have meaning." "May 8th is the victory of law over the law of the strongest," he stated in the pages of the Dauphiné Libéré newspaper, arguing that Raphaël Arnault embodies a form of radicalism incompatible with this spirit of national unity. This position was welcomed by several local elected officials and right-wing figures, who see in this refusal a reminder of the violent excesses of certain far-left groups.

Following the incident, Raphaël Arnault reportedly denounced the mayor of Avignon's "shocking" behavior. However, Olivier Galzi defended his decision, arguing that it was consistent with the symbolism of May 8th.