Emmanuel Macron is facing increasing pressure to address the ongoing political crisis in France. Édouard Philippe, a former prime minister and leader of the centrist Horizons party, has proposed that Macron appoint a new prime minister to facilitate the budget process, followed by early presidential elections. This call for action follows the resignation of Sébastien Lecornu, France’s third prime minister in a year, whose effort to form a government failed earlier this week.
Macron has requested Lecornu to develop a stabilization plan by the end of Wednesday, although signs suggest that support for the president is diminishing even among his allies. Philippe expressed that he is not in favor of an immediate resignation but emphasized that it is crucial for Macron to fulfill his presidential duties. Gabriel Attal, head of Macron’s Renaissance party, echoed these concerns, stating he does not comprehend the president’s recent decisions and suggested that it is time to share power with other political factions.
Historically, calls for Macron’s resignation have primarily come from opposition parties on the left and right; however, the views from his own party members signify a deepening crisis. Macron, in office since 2017, has struggled to maintain authority as his centrist bloc lost its parliamentary majority following a snap election. This situation has complicated Macron’s efforts to pass an annual budget aimed at reducing the nation’s significant public debt, projected to reach a deficit of 5.4% of GDP this year.
Lecornu’s resignation came after only 26 days, citing internal conflict among coalition parties. As discussions continue with various political leaders about resolving the deadlock, Philippe stated the importance of maintaining government authority and order. Macron’s poll ratings have significantly declined, with a recent survey indicating that over half of the French population believes he should resign.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0rjn3l8w2o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss