The controversial pictures were made during Macron’s visit to the Caribbean island, devastated after hurricane Irma last year.

The French leader was followed by a host of photographers as he walked for five hours, despite sporadic rain, entered homes and talked to the locals about their life and rebuilding after the tragedy. 

© Eliot Blondet / AFP

The reconstruction seems far from over at Saint Martin, with many houses remaining half-built or in need of repairs.

Macron’s PR-stunt went wrong when he came across two bare-chested young men, who had bandannas on their heads. One of them told to the French leader that he was a “robber” and was recently released from prison.

The president wasn’t at all perplexed by such confession as he told the guy that he should leave his criminal past behind and take part in reconstruction.

He then on went hugging the men and posing for photos with them as one showed a middle finger.

The opposition in France was quick to repost the photo and used the embarrassing moment as chance to grill Macron.

Many on twitter lamented that Macron is embarrassing the country, adding to the disastrous Benalla affair a "finger affair."

Others noted that people in the region devastated by the hurricane expect help rather than selfie opportunities.