French President Emmanuel Macron has faced criticism for his response to Cyclone Chido, which devastated the French overseas territory of Mayotte. The cyclone, described as akin to an atomic bomb, caused widespread destruction, leaving residents without essential services like water and electricity.
Opposition politicians have accused France of neglecting Mayotte and failing to prepare for natural disasters exacerbated by climate change. Cyclone Chido, a category 4 storm, wreaked havoc on the archipelago, destroying neighborhoods, hospitals, schools, and infrastructure.
The cyclone, the strongest to hit the islands in over 90 years, brought winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour. Macron's visit to Mayotte to engage with residents was met with anger and frustration, with locals expressing their dire situation and lack of support from the government.
Mayotte, the poorest place in the European Union, has been grappling with issues like unemployment, violence, and a growing migration crisis. The region's high poverty rate, five times that of mainland France, has been exacerbated by an influx of undocumented migrants seeking better opportunities.
Authorities in Mayotte are conducting relief efforts, with supplies being airlifted from Reunion Island. The death toll from the cyclone stands at 31, with many more injured. Macron has pledged additional support for Mayotte and announced a national day of mourning in solidarity with the victims.
As Mayotte continues to recover from the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, the focus remains on providing aid to survivors and rebuilding the shattered communities.
