Gisèle Pelicot thanks supporters after ‘difficult ordeal’ of rape trial as ex-husband jailed – live updates

We’re starting to see reactions from French politicians coming in on social media.

Marie Lebecan MP and spokesperson for President Emmanuel Macron’s ruling alliance, says her thoughts are with Gisèle Pelicot.

“Her courage, her dignity, her example. Huge respect for this woman, whose courage shines far beyond this trial. Let us hope that, following her example, we will always better protect women against sexual violence,” she says.

Manuel Bompardthe national coordinator of the left-wing France Unbowed (LFI) party, says “the Mazan rape trial will remain a historic trial”.

“It must be a turning point in the fight against the rape culture that is eating away at society as a whole.

Admiration for Gisèle Pelicot, her courage, her strength and her determination.

Thank you, Madam,” he says.

Valérie Pécressepresident of the regional council of the Île-de-France and a member of Les Républicains, says: “Infinite respect for Gisèle Pélicot who stood tall, dignified and admirably courageous in the face of her tormentors, notably the predator whose life she shared for decades.”

“Her refusal to hold a closed trial so that ‘shame changes side’ is a service to society and a signal sent to millions of young girls and women to encourage them to no longer remain silent in the face of assaults, rapes and all forms of sexist and sexual violence.”