French Politician Resigns After Hosting Francis Lalanne and Dieudonné

Stéphane Gonzalez, a municipal councilor in Lanton, France, has resigned from the National Rally (RN) party following his decision to host a private event featuring singer and presidential candidate Francis Lalanne. The event, which took place on November 7 in the Blagon district, was intended to include comedian Dieudonné M’Bala M’Bala, who has faced numerous legal convictions for hate speech, antisemitism, and inciting racial hatred.

The regional branch of the National Rally confirmed the resignation in a statement released on November 9. The party distanced itself from the councilor after he allowed the controversial pair to use a private property he owns, known as 'Au cœur des Nargues,' for a public meeting. While the event proceeded in Lanton, the duo's broader campaign efforts have faced significant obstacles across France.

Lalanne and Dieudonné, who announced their intention to run in the 2027 presidential election earlier this year, have seen their campaign trail marked by cancellations and public outcry. Prior to the Lanton gathering, meetings scheduled in Cognac and Périgueux were canceled by the campaign team. Officials cited 'threats and various pressures' as the primary reasons for these cancellations, stating they were acting in the interest of public peace.

The campaign, dubbed 'La France libre,' has been characterized by its organizers as a unique political endeavor. However, critics, including local chapters of the International League Against Racism and Antisemitism (LICRA), have strongly opposed the duo's presence. Opponents have argued that freedom of expression does not grant a license to propagate hatred or undermine human dignity, leading to widespread petitions against their scheduled appearances.

Francis Lalanne has previously navigated various legal and political challenges. In April 2025, the Council of State imposed an 18-month period of ineligibility on the singer due to his failure to submit campaign accounts following the 2024 European elections. That period has since expired, clearing the way for his current presidential bid. His associate, Dieudonné, carries a long history of legal issues, including a recent six-month prison sentence for condoning terrorism and dozens of prior convictions.

Local authorities have frequently intervened in the past to prevent Dieudonné from performing, citing risks to public order. While the Lanton event took place on private property, the political fallout for the local representative highlights the sensitivity surrounding the association between the two figures. As the 2027 election cycle progresses, the campaign’s ability to secure venues and maintain political alliances remains uncertain.