Crowds in Mayotte expressed growing frustration toward French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to assess the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, the strongest storm to hit the French territory in nearly a century.
As Macron toured devastated areas, some residents booed, underscoring discontent with the government’s response.
The poorest department in France, Mayotte, has long voiced grievances about underinvestment and neglect. Cyclone Chido, which struck the archipelago in the Indian Ocean last Saturday, has only deepened the dissatisfaction. 
Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed, with an official death toll of 35—though authorities acknowledge this is a dramatic undercount. Hundreds or even thousands are feared dead, as many residents underestimated the storm’s severity and ignored warnings.
Mixed Reactions During Macron’s Visit
In Tsingoni, residents shouted demands for water and phone services, while others greeted Macron warmly, taking selfies and introducing him to their children. Yet, in Pamandzi, the French leader faced boos from dozens of residents.
Responding to criticism, Macron retorted, “I have nothing to do with the cyclone… You can blame me, but it wasn’t me!” He vacillated between empathy and exasperation, later asserting, “If it wasn’t France, you’d be 10,000 times worse off!”
Cyclone’s Destruction Sparks Public Health Fears
Efforts to restore basic services continue across Mayotte. In Mirereni, Civil Security officers worked to repair a vital water pipe serving over 10,000 people. Locals fear the water shortage could lead to disease outbreaks, recalling a cholera incident earlier this year.
Meanwhile, drone footage reveals widespread destruction, with makeshift homes flattened and communities cut off from aid.
A History of Strain Amplified by Migration
Mayotte’s challenges are compounded by a high influx of migrants from the nearby Comoros islands, many living in precarious conditions. Macron emphasized that addressing illegal immigration is crucial to resolving the territory’s broader issues.
He also announced plans for a special law to accelerate rebuilding efforts, replace slums with sturdier housing, and improve infrastructure.
Despite ongoing challenges, Macron insisted that France is doing its best. However, the slow aid response and the overwhelming scale of the disaster continue to fuel anger and despair among Mayotte’s residents.
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