White march in Fleurance: 5,000 people expected to pay tribute to Lyhanna, 11
Nearly 5,000 people are expected in Fleurance, in the Gers, to pay tribute to Lyhanna, an 11-year-old schoolgirl found dead following her disappearance.
Fleurance mobilises in memory of Lyhanna, 11
Nearly 5,000 people are expected this Sunday afternoon in Fleurance, in the Gers, for a white march in tribute to Lyhanna, an 11-year-old schoolgirl found dead following her disappearance in the Puycasquier area, according to europe1.fr. The gathering is due to begin at 3 p.m., in an atmosphere of silence and reflection.
The mobilisation extends well beyond the boundaries of the town. Residents of surrounding villages have announced their participation in the procession, alongside the close relatives of the young victim, deeply affected by this tragedy.
As early as the day before the march, numerous residents had come to lay flowers. Among them, parents of young children wanted to show their support. "We have eight-year-old twins, we simply cannot do anything other than take part, if only to offer our support in whatever way we can," one of them told Europe 1.
In this town of 6,000 inhabitants where proximity between neighbours is a daily reality, solidarity asserted itself naturally. "We see more or less everyone, we try to remain united and it is true that in moments like this, it is important to stay together," testified a local resident.
For several participants, the tribute goes beyond a simple gesture of neighbourhood solidarity. "It was important to us to do this because we all feel concerned, it is our town," explained a resident who came to lay white roses in memory of the young girl.
The approach of the march is sparking intense emotion in those who planned to take part. "It will be very difficult I think, the most difficult moment," acknowledged one of the participants.
The case is furthermore part of a controversy surrounding the judicial handling of rape complaints against minors targeting the main suspect, a dispute that has amplified indignation far beyond the Gers. "This tragedy really touched the whole town and beyond. All the surrounding villages are mobilising and coming. I hope there will really be a lot of people," declared a resident.
Source: France 24 - France