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15-Month Prison Sentence Sought for Martinique Activist Rodrigue Petitot

Rodrigue Petitot, leader of the anti-cost-of-living movement in Martinique, faces charges of threats and intimidation after an incident at the prefect's residence.

Des manifestants se rassemblent lors du procès de l’activiste Rodrigue Petitot.
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Overview

  • Prosecutors have requested a 30-month prison sentence for Petitot, including 15 months of probation, along with a two-year probationary period and continued detention.
  • Petitot is accused of entering the prefect's residence without authorization and verbally confronting the prefect during a November 2024 visit by the Minister for Overseas Territories.
  • The incident occurred in the context of widespread protests and unrest over high food prices in Martinique, where costs are 40% higher than mainland France.
  • Petitot denies the charges, claiming the residence gate was open, and surveillance footage reportedly supports his claim of no forced entry.
  • Hundreds of supporters have gathered outside the Fort-de-France courthouse, framing the trial as an attempt to suppress social activism against economic inequality.