French PM Bayrou Testifies on Decades-Long Catholic School Abuse Scandal

French Prime Minister François Bayrou is set to testify before a parliamentary committee investigating decades of sexual abuse at the Notre-Dame de Bétharram Catholic school, a scandal that has put his political future under intense scrutiny. Bayrou, who served as education minister from 1993 to 1997, faces allegations that he was aware of widespread abuse at the school during his tenure, accusations he vehemently denies. The inquiry has gained momentum after new witness statements and documents suggested Bayrou could not have been unaware, as well as recent testimony from both investigators and a judge. The scandal intensified when Bayrou's daughter revealed she was abused at a related school, further damaging his credibility and causing his approval ratings to fall below President Emmanuel Macron's. While analysts suggest the scandal alone may not be enough to topple Bayrou, it has emboldened political opponents amidst broader dissatisfaction, including France's ongoing budgetary crisis. The outcome of Bayrou's testimony could significantly influence the stability of Macron's government in the coming weeks.