Overview
- The body of 11‑year‑old Lyhanna was found in the Gers on June 4, triggering national shock and a wider examination of how police and magistrates handled the case.
- Public anger has translated into sustained mobilisation by about 150 associations that have called weekly demonstrations and a poll showed 74% of respondents say Darmanin bears responsibility.
- Rassemblement National leaders have pressed Darmanin to resign, with Jordan Bardella saying he should have offered his resignation and Marine Le Pen ultimately agreeing with that position.
- On June 15 Darmanin sent a letter reaffirming his support for magistrates while stressing their responsibility and the need to sanction failings, and some government figures have publicly backed him.
- An administrative inquiry into the judiciary’s handling is expected at the end of the week and jurists say its findings will be key to any political or administrative sanctions and to broader reform debates ahead of 2027.