Tribute to Hichem Miraoui: Silent March in Puget-sur-Argens After a Racist Killing

Over 2,000 people joined two white marches held on Sunday, June 8, in Marseille and Puget-sur-Argens (Var) in memory of Hichem Miraoui, who was shot dead by a neighbor on May 31. The anti-terrorism prosecutor has charged the suspect with terrorist murder motivated by the victim’s origin.

In Puget-sur-Argens, where Miraoui lived and worked, around 1,600 people walked in silence from his barbershop to the town hall. Leading the procession was a white banner reading: “Rest in peace, Hichem, a kind-hearted soul adopted by the village.” The shopfront had been transformed into a spontaneous memorial, covered with white flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages: “We will never forget you,” read one. Another said: “His smile and daily greetings will stay with me forever.”

A Much-Loved Figure in the Community

Hichem Miraoui, 46, was a well-known and well-liked figure in the neighborhood. Friends and clients describe him as warm, generous, and attentive to others. He would often offer free haircuts to clients in need. “He was a good neighbor, always ready to help,” said Mickaël, who lived above him. Antoine, another local, recalled: “He’d always call out ‘Hey uncle!’ when he saw me. He didn’t deserve this.”

The suspect, Christophe B., a 53-year-old former legionnaire, has admitted to the shooting but denies any racist intent. According to the anti-terror prosecutor, he opened fire from his car, killing Miraoui and wounding another neighbor. The suspect had posted racist videos on Facebook before and after the attack. He has since been charged and placed in custody.

Mourning and Muted Anger

Though the organizers emphasized the march’s apolitical and silent nature, many participants expressed their frustration and grief. “This is a time for Hichem’s memory, not politics,” said Majid Ellili, a municipal employee and close friend of the victim. “But yes, we are burning inside.” Fathia, another local, added: “Everyone knew that man was racist. The mayor, the police… and nothing was done.”

A brief moment of tension arose when LFI MP Sébastien Delogu joined the march wearing his tricolor sash. Some participants challenged him, but he removed the sash and was later applauded.

Earlier that day, about 450 people gathered in Marseille, marching behind a banner reading: “Racism has killed again. Justice for Hichem.” Among them was Miraoui’s cousin, Mouna: “It’s despicable. He was well-integrated, a kind person. Just because someone is different in religion or nationality doesn’t mean they should be hated.”

Lawyer Sefen Guez Guez, representing the family, condemned what he called a “climate of racism”: “We will fight to the very top of the state. What happened to Hichem was rooted in racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia.”