Mélenchon Defends Young Guard Amidst Quentin Deranque Death Controversy

Lyon, France – Two weeks after the death of 23-year-old identity activist Quentin Deranque following a clash with members of the antifa movement, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of La France Insoumise (LFI), has defended the Young Guard (Jeune Garde) and accused the Némésis association of setting a “trap.” Mélenchon made these statements during a rally in Lyon on February 26, 2026, in support of LFI candidates Anaïs Belouassa-Cherifi and Florestan Groult for the upcoming municipal and metropolitan elections.

Accusations Against Némésis

Mélenchon alleged that Némésis, an association of young women, deliberately lured anti-fascist activists into confrontations with far-right groups in Lyon. He described this as a “deliberately set up trap” designed to provoke violence. He further characterized Némésis as a “criminal organization” and called for its dissolution. These claims echo earlier reports by L’Humanité regarding prior contacts between Némésis and identity activists.

Support for the Young Guard

Despite widespread criticism and calls for its dissolution following the involvement of its members in the events leading to Deranque’s death, Mélenchon reaffirmed his support for the Young Guard. He argued that the demand for its dissolution was unfounded and that the group is not a “criminal organization.” He stated, “Their formation does not provide for killing,” according to CNEWS.

Political Fallout and Condemnation

Mélenchon’s defense of the Young Guard has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum. Sandrine Runel, a deputy from the Socialist Party, as well called for the dissolution of Némésis and is running on a separate left-wing list in the Lyon municipal elections. The controversy comes as a collaborator of LFI deputy Raphaël Arnault remains in custody, having been placed under investigation for complicity in Deranque’s murder, as reported by Le Progrès.

Mélenchon’s Remarks on the Incident

Addressing a crowd of approximately 2,000 supporters, Mélenchon expressed his lack of respect for Deranque’s ideology, referring to him as a “fascist.” He also lamented the consequences for those involved in the brawl, stating that their lives have been “broken.” He reiterated his stance against violence, stating, “When a fight starts, you never know how it will finish. That’s why I say ‘no fighting’,” according to Le Progrès.

Ongoing Investigation

The government has initiated legal proceedings in response to the possibility of the Young Guard being reconstituted, as reported by CNEWS. The investigation into Deranque’s death and the role of various groups involved is ongoing.