French politician calls out Victor Wembanyama for supporting, encouraging French protestors

The mayor of Nice, France, rebuked Victor Wembanyama for supporting the ongoing protest movement in France, accusing the NBA star of encouraging unrest.

"French celebrities like the basketball player Victor Wembanyama, who called for supporting the riots of October 17, bear a historic responsibility," Ciotti wrote on X.

"They must be condemned." For background, the protests began in September with high school students claiming they were demanding better conditions in French schools, including more resources, improved facilities and relief from overcrowded classrooms.

The movement has since expanded into a broader protest against government spending cuts, drawing support from university students, labor unions and members of France's "Yellow Vest" movement.

KYRIE IRVING, VICTOR WEMBANYAMA LIKE MAMDANI'S VIDEO CALLING NETANYAHU A 'WAR CRIMINAL' The unrest escalated significantly on Oct.

17, when an estimated 550,000 to 800,000 people participated in demonstrations across France.

Rioters broke out in several major cities, including Paris, Lyon and Marseille.

Rioters and looters clashed with police, set fires, damaged public buildings and looted businesses.

Earlier this month, Wembanyama, who was born in France, wrote on Instagram that he'd "really love to" join the protests.

"These are systemic inequalities, problems that are so deep," he added when asked about the demonstrations during a preseason postgame press conference on October 8.

"I’m glad that high school students, young people in general, are making their voices heard, because I hear them and I support them.

And I hope the people at the very top will do the same." Then, on Oct.

16, the eve of the nationwide demonstrations, Wembanyama posted a cryptic image of the White Rabbit from "Alice in Wonderland" pointing to his watch.

Some in France interpreted the post as signaling anticipation for the Oct.