A first step for Hollande, and for change in France and in Europe

The Party of European Socialists (PES) has congratulated François Hollande for topping the poll in the first round of the French Presidential elections. The result marks the first time in the history of the 5th Republic that a challenger, rather than the sitting President, has come first.

PES President Sergei Stanishev stated that; “This result marks a clear turning point. François Hollande has consistently and courageously said no to austerity-only policies and French citizens have shown they agreed. Soon Europe will follow. I know that François will draw strength for the final round, not only from this result, but from the millions of progressive voices celebrating around Europe”.

PES Secretary General Philip Cordery stated that; “This result is a great one for François Hollande, a first step towards a victory which is so necessary to lead the country out of the crisis”. Mr. Cordery added that; “a victory that would also mark the end of the Merkozy spectre that has haunted Europe for the last two years. Finally millions of Europeans can begin to hope the focus will once again be on how we can build a progressive society for all”.

The PES deplored the significant vote for the ‘Front National’ as the ‘inevitable’ result of incendiary words and policies of the current French Government. Mr. Stanishev concluded that; ‘The populism of the French Government has been irresponsible and often dangerous. The Front National score is an indictment of this irresponsibility”.