Sunday, 27 November 2016

Francois Fillon Declares Victory in French Conservative Presidential Primary

Defeating rival Alain Juppe

(PARIS) — Former Prime Minister Francois Fillon has declared victory in France’s first-ever conservative presidential primary, beating a more moderate rival who had warned of encroaching populism.
Fillon enjoyed a surprise surge in popularity in recent weeks over longtime favorite Alain Juppe, also a former prime minister.
Fillon campaigned on promises of drastic free-market reforms, a hard line on immigration and Islam, support for traditional family values and friendlier ties with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
In a victory speech following the primary’s runoff election Sunday, Fillon called for unity to defeat the far right and the discredited left.
Polls suggest the 62-year-old Fillon would have a high chance of winning the French presidency in the April-May election, and that his toughest challenge may come from far-right leader Marine Le Pen.

No comments: