Thousands March in Marseille Demanding Justice After Murder

Thousands of demonstrators rallied in Marseille on November 13, 2023, to honour Mehdi Kessaci, a 20-year-old anti-drug activist murdered in a tragic incident that has sparked national outrage. The gathering followed his death, which authorities believe is linked to the ongoing battle against drug-related crime in France’s second-largest city. Participants chanted “Justice for Mehdi” as they observed a minute of silence at the roundabout where he was shot while seated in his parked car.

The investigation into Kessaci’s death is ongoing, but local authorities are treating it as a “warning crime” tied to the activism of his brother, Amine Kessaci, aged 22. Amine, who has become a prominent figure in the anti-drug movement, attended the rally under police protection, reflecting the serious threats he faces. His brother’s murder has intensified his resolve, especially following the 2020 murder of their half-brother, Brahim, during a drug-trafficking dispute.

“I demand justice for Mehdi. I demand justice for Brahim, my other murdered brother. I demand justice for all the victims. I demand safety for my family,” Amine declared to the crowd, his appearance having been kept secret until the last moment due to security concerns. Calls have emerged from former lawmakers for Amine to receive France’s prestigious Legion of Honour, but he insists that recognition should go to the mothers in disadvantaged neighbourhoods affected by drug violence.

Urgent Calls for Action Against Drug Crime

The ongoing struggle against drug-related violence in Marseille has resulted in over a dozen killings this year alone, driven by turf wars and disputes linked to cocaine and cannabis trafficking. Benoit Payan, the Mayor of Marseille, addressed the crowd, stating, “Fear cannot beat us. We must resist and fight them, wage a war against those who kill for money.” His remarks underscored the need for unity and resilience against the city’s growing reputation as a “narco-city.”

As the rally unfolded, politicians from various parties joined the demonstration, underscoring a nationwide focus on addressing drug-related crime. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the murder of Mehdi Kessaci as a “turning point,” while President Emmanuel Macron urged the nation to adopt a counter-terrorism approach to combat drug crime.

Participants, numbering over 6,200, laid white flowers at the site of the shooting, a poignant tribute to Mehdi, who had aspirations of becoming a police officer. Activist Anne-Marie Tagawa, aged 72, spoke of the need for reflection and the importance of voicing discontent about the situation in Marseille. “For years we have been raising the alarm, we have been speaking out because we know that silence kills,” she noted, criticizing the lack of institutional support in marginalized areas.

A Mother’s Grief and Call for Change

The gathering also saw the presence of Mehdi and Brahim’s mother, Ouassila Benhamdi, who addressed the crowd dressed in white. Overcome with emotion, she said, “My heart is torn apart. I am inconsolable. No mother wants to see her children die before her.” Her plea to the government urged immediate action to combat the violence that has claimed numerous lives.

Benhamdi’s heartfelt message resonated with many attendees, highlighting the urgent need for governmental intervention to address the drug crisis that has left families shattered. “This must stop, for all the families affected by this scourge,” she implored, reflecting the sentiment shared by countless others at the rally.

The tragic events surrounding Mehdi Kessaci’s death have not only galvanized local activism but have also drawn national attention to the pervasive issue of drug crime in France. As the community calls for justice, the rally stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of those fighting against the tide of violence and despair.