LSN News › Malaysia

Politics · Malaysia Bureau

Far-right Reconquest leader Zemmour enters France's presidential race

Eric Zemmour, leader of France's Reconquest party, has announced his candidacy for next year's presidential election. The far-right politician has pledged tough stances on immigration and the expulsion of unemployed foreign residents.

LSN Malaysia · 18 September 2026

Far-right Reconquest leader Zemmour enters France's presidential race

Zemmour's entry into the race adds to an increasingly crowded field of candidates competing for the French presidency. The Reconquest party leader has built his political platform around stricter immigration controls and nationalist policies, positioning himself within France's far-right political spectrum.

The announcement comes as immigration remains a contentious issue in French politics. Zemmour has made combating irregular migration and addressing employment concerns central to his campaign messaging, appealing to voters concerned about labour market pressures and social integration.

His candidacy reflects the broader rightward shift in European politics, with anti-immigration platforms gaining traction across the continent. The Reconquest party, which Zemmour founded, seeks to consolidate far-right support in the upcoming election cycle.

The presidential race is expected to feature candidates across the political spectrum, from mainstream conservatives to far-right and left-wing challengers. Zemmour's participation underscores the prominence of immigration and national identity debates in shaping France's electoral landscape.