Auch – 06/10/2026: Following the tragic death of 15-year-old student Lyhanna in Gers, the judges of the Auch Court have strongly criticized the public atmosphere and political discourse which they consider to be driven by an “unrestrained political debate.” They described it as “incitement to ethnic hatred,” exacerbating the tensions and workload already present in the judiciary.
In 2025, the Auch public prosecutor’s office received more than 10,000 complaints; only three prosecutors handle these cases. The judges emphasized that this excessive workload significantly strains the judiciary’s resources and hampers thorough investigations. Public debate and political attacks further increase the pressure on judicial bodies.
In a joint statement, the judges called for a respectful, constructive, and fact-based discussion about this case and condemned all forms of hate speech. They strongly warned that public attacks aimed at the judiciary could undermine the independence and integrity of the system. Only through a calm and fair approach can the truth be clarified and justice served.
The Auch public prosecutor’s office has identified the investigation into Lyhanna’s death as a top priority. They stressed the necessity of a thorough and objective investigation to determine the cause of death and provide fair answers to the victim’s family.
The judges urged the public to respect the work of the judiciary and avoid unfounded speculations or accusations. They noted that only an objective discussion contributes to strengthening the rule of law and increasing trust in institutions.
The situation in Auch reflects a broader challenge for the French judiciary system: a high workload, increasing public criticism, and political pressure are threatening the effectiveness and independence of the legal system. Given these burdens, measures to improve working conditions and ensure independence are essential.
Amid these developments, Lyhanna’s family mourns their daughter and hopes the case will be clarified swiftly and fairly. They call on authorities to make every effort to uncover the truth and bring those responsible to justice.
Additionally, the case raises questions about the role of the media and political discourse in public perception of judicial cases. Distinguishing clearly between evidence-based facts and conjecture is essential, as well as preventing biased comments from influencing the judiciary’s work to ensure a fair investigation.
Sources
- Franceinfo