The Mazan rape trial concluded with Dominique Pelicot receiving a 20-year sentence, while his 50 co-defendants received terms between 3-15 years. Gisèle Pelicot's public response emphasized "unrecognized victims" while being applauded outside the courthouse.
President Macron arrived in Mayotte, declaring December 23 as a national day of mourning and activating "exceptional natural disaster" status. His visit revealed mounting challenges in aid distribution, with Kaweni's 200,000 residents still awaiting assistance. Macron announced plans to eliminate slums and implement strict border controls.
By evening, François Bayrou appeared on France 2, promising a government formation before Christmas and suggesting alternatives to the controversial retirement age of 64. His television appearance revealed Macron's initial hesitation in appointing him as Prime Minister.