The conservative Republicans party in France has expelled leader Eric Ciotti after he attempted to form an electoral alliance with Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN). Despite his dismissal, Ciotti insists he remains the head. The party's political committee reached a unanimous decision to remove him, according to MP Annie Genevard, who noted that candidates for imminent elections would be presented with clarity and independence.

“I am and remain the president” of the party, Ciotti posted on X, arguing the committee's decision was “a flagrant violation of our statutes” and calling it illegal and void.

A significant revolt occurred among top Republicans after Ciotti revealed his agreement with the RN on television. Following this, Ciotti closed the party's headquarters on Wednesday, citing threats to staff safety and claiming there was no planned meeting.

Senior lawmaker Aurelien Pradie stated that Ciotti ceased being president the moment he announced the alliance with the RN. Historically a significant political party, the Republicans have faced challenges since 2017, struggling between President Emmanuel Macron’s centrists and the far-right.

The party's leaders have attempted to chart an independent path, occasionally cooperating with Macron’s minority government to pass critical laws while also threatening censure motions.

Macron defends snap polls

Following Macron's surprise announcement of snap elections, Ciotti disclosed on Tuesday his electoral arrangement with the RN, which took many in his party by surprise.

Laurent Wauquiez, Republican president of the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region, criticized political coalition deals, emphasizing the need for clear communication of the party’s ideas in the legislative battle. “The Republicans have to communicate their ideas simply but clearly in this legislative battle,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a campaign-like speech, Macron defended his decision for snap elections and urged centrists to unite against the hard right. He aimed to build a new coalition to govern, ruling out resignation if his alliance were to lose.

Following an electoral victory by the eurosceptic RN in the European Parliament vote, Macron called the snap election. According to an Elabe poll, RN is expected to secure 31 percent in the first round of the national vote, with a left-wing alliance at 28 percent, and Macron’s group at 18 percent. Political analysts predict a contest between the far right and the left in the legislative elections, which will conclude on July 7.