‘Radical’ or ‘hero’?: France debates leftist candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon

Hard-left French leader Jean-Luc Melenchon has been described as a “radical” by right-wing opponents, a “despot” by former allies and a “hero” by some of the students who have taken to the streets in nationwide protests.

The leader of the France Unbowed (LFI) party has emerged as the strongest contender on...