French mayor moves to block memorial march for slain Catholic Quentin Deranque who was beaten to death by Antifa

The mayor of Lyon has formally asked state authorities to block a planned memorial march for Quentin Deranque, citing what he called a “real risk of violent unrest.” The demonstration, scheduled for Saturday, is now in limbo, reports Lyon Mag.

Mayor Grégory Doucet sent his request on Thursday to the Rhône prefecture, arguing that tensions remain high following Deranque’s murder. The final call on whether the march proceeds will be made by the state.

“In a context of particularly intense national and local tensions since the death of Quentin Deranque, and faced with the real risk of violent unrest,” Doucet said.

He added: “Given the proven risks of public order disturbances, the fear of the presence of far-right militants coming from across France and neighboring countries, threats against elected officials, as well as damage to parliamentary offices, it appears that, to guarantee a calm framework and prevent any violence, banning this demonstration constitutes the only responsible decision.”

Doucet said he acted alongside 7th arrondissement Mayor Fanny Dubot after hearing from residents and business owners in the affected neighborhood. The area, he said, remains “still deeply marked by this tragedy,” with “legitimate concerns expressed locally.”

The mayor further stated: “While the gathering of the family, loved ones, and all those affected by this death is naturally understandable, elements indicate that the call to demonstrate is also circulating within far-right networks at the national and international level, raising fears of the arrival of individuals likely to commit acts of violence.”

He concluded: “In these circumstances, the priority remains the protection of the people of Lyon and the maintenance of public order.”

The move comes amid political pressure on Lyon’s Green-led administration. In 2022, deputy mayor for security Mohamed Chihi said he worked with the antifa group La Jeune Garde.

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