Jean-Luc Mélenchon Defends La France insoumise Against Allegations of Religious Entryism During Parliamentary Inquiry

On December 6, 2025, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, founder of La France insoumise (LFI), testified before a parliamentary inquiry commission investigating alleged links between political parties and Islamist networks. Mélenchon emphatically stated that LFI would "never accept religious entryism," reaffirming the movement's commitment to France's principle of state secularism (laïcité).

Mélenchon emphasized the necessity of clearly distinguishing between Islam, Islamism, and terrorism. He acknowledged the threat posed by Islamism but firmly denied any ties between his movement and Islamist groups, citing that intelligence officials consulted by the commission had found no evidence linking LFI to Islamism. He said, "All intelligence officials you have heard say there is no link between us and the Islamists," highlighting the absence of national strategy connecting political parties like LFI to Islamist networks.

The inquiry commission, initiated by the right-wing party Les Républicains (LR) and led by Xavier Breton, has been criticized for its lack of representation from left-wing deputies, which has led to accusations of a biased and incomplete investigation. LFI initially expressed reluctance about Mélenchon's participation, pointing to the commission's questionable composition, but ultimately confirmed his willingness to attend and respond to the inquiry. Marine Tondelier, national secretary of the Ecologists, has also voiced concerns, accusing the commission of fostering a climate of suspicion based on religious affiliations, particularly Islam.

During his testimony, Mélenchon defended the 1905 law guaranteeing religious freedom and laïcité, warning against attempts by right-wing factions to regulate religious practices. Additionally, he rejected allegations of anti-Semitism directed at LFI, pointing to his history of supporting Jewish communities and expressing frustration over repeated accusations that call his integrity into question.

The commission is expected to conclude its work around December 10, 2025, while debates continue over the politicization of investigations into Islamist networks and secularism in France.