Montpellier court to rule Saturday on October 24 protest ban

A French administrative court is expected to rule Saturday on whether to allow a demonstration in Montpellier, while tram service remains suspended and gathering restrictions stay in place. The decision follows violent protests on October 17. The prefecture banned the October 24 march due to public order risks, rejecting an alternative route proposed by organizers. Three emergency appeals were filed, with the court examining them Friday but delaying its ruling until Saturday morning. Security measures include a ban on gatherings in central Montpellier from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., a curfew for unaccompanied minors from 8 p.m., and restrictions on protective equipment and flammable materials. Some cultural events, like the Cinemed festival, have adjusted schedules.