French Politician Sparks Controversy with Anti-Muslim Comments on Paris Transit Strike

"The RATP agents are mostly Arab-Muslims" who "despise Christmas and consider users as cattle". Agnès Cerighelli expresses her anger on Twitter. According to this elected official from the Yvelines, if the strike continues, it is because the Muslim agents want to disrupt the celebration of the Christmas holiday.

"As Christmas approaches, the strike is systematic. For Muslims, this feast is unlawful and despicable. Let’s not forget to remind them that the Republic is secular but France is Christian. Our churches and our religious festivals attest to this," she said. Her annoyance is explained by the fact that the RATP pays the Christmas bonus to the majority of (Muslim) workers who "despise" this holiday.

These remarks were not to the liking of Arnaud Péricard, the mayor of the town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. "It is no longer acceptable for her to be associated with our city known for its openness and benevolence," he hammered.