French TV probed over remarks about black mayor

The Paris prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation into news channel CNews on suspicion of hate speech linked to comments about Bally Bagayoko, the newly elected mayor of the Paris suburb of Saint-Denis. The move follows a complaint by the politician, who says remarks made during a televised debate at the end of March were racist.

The controversy centres on remarks made during a CNews broadcast in late March, when a guest and psychologist said that ‘Homo sapiens … are social mammals and part of the great ape family’, adding that in ‘every community, every tribe … there’s a leader whose role is to establish authority’. The comments were later defended by those involved, who denied any racist intent.

According to prosecutors, the investigation focuses on possible public insults based on origin, ethnicity, nationality, race or religion. A separate inquiry has also been opened into alleged cyberbullying targeting the mayor, reportedly linked to his skin colour.

Bagayoko is a member of the left-wing party La France Insoumise. CNews did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

French law provides for a prison sentence of up to one year and a fine of up to €45,000 for public racially motivated insults. In cases of cyberbullying, the penalty is up to two years in prison and a fine of up to €30,000.

(reuters, max)