Gérald Darmanin files a complaint against Danièle Obono for 'apology of terrorism' following his comments on Hamas

Gérald Darmanin takes legal action against Danièle Obono for “apology of terrorism”

\n\nThe event took place on August 17, 2021, when Gerald Darmanin, the French Minister of the Interior, took legal action against the France Insoumise MP, Daniele Obono, for accusations of “apology of terrorism”. This happened in the context of his remarks on the Hamas. \n\n

The words of Danièle Obono which provoked the ire of Gérald Darmanin

\n\nDanièle Obono, during an interview on France Info, made the controversial comments about Hamas, a party considered by many to be a terrorist organization. Obono affirmed that this group is not a terrorist organization but a “political party” which “won elections”. \n\nThese statements quickly caused considerable controversy, with several political figures reacting strongly on social media. \n\n

Gérald Darmanin's response: a complaint for apologizing for terrorism

\n\nFaced with what he considers to be a trivialization of terrorism, Gerald Darmanin quickly reacted. The Minister of the Interior took legal action against the MP for “apology of terrorism”. He announced his decision on his Twitter account: "Beyond the controversy, I have decided to take legal action regarding Ms. Obono's unacceptable comments on Hamas." He also added that “these comments deserve to be sanctioned”.\n\nThe seizure of justice by Gerald Darmanin against Daniele Obono concerns the basis of article 421-2-5 of the Penal Code which punishes public advocacy of terrorism. \n\n

The defense of Danièle Obono

\n\nDaniele Obono spoke on her Twitter account: "Comparing the Hamas election with an RN electoral victory does not amount to supporting Hamas! #CheckLesSousTitres ???? #Pavlov". \n\nThe case is now in the hands of justice, and this incident further raises questions about freedom of expression in the current political context in France. It remains to be seen how the debate will unfold and how justice will resolve this complex and controversial matter. \n\n