French President Emmanuel Macron is set to appoint a new prime minister within 48 hours, as confirmed by the Elysee Palace. This announcement comes amid discussions about the possibility of fresh elections, which seems to be diminishing. Outgoing Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu indicated that there is a parliamentary majority that prefers to avoid new elections and emphasized the urgent need to pass a budget by the year’s end.
Lecornu, who served as prime minister for a short time and is a close ally of Macron, became the third person to occupy this role in less than a year, following the emergence of a hung parliament. He remarked that the political landscape is complicated by divisions among parties and the looming 2027 presidential election. Lecornu noted that any new government should be free from presidential aspirations to ensure stability.
The political gridlock in France intensified following snap elections in July 2024, resulting in no single party controlling a majority. This situation has hindered the passage of crucial reforms, including budgetary measures. France’s national debt has reached €3.4 trillion, marking a significant concern for the government. Lecornu stated that he would present a draft budget next week for discussion, urging MPs to assess it before outright rejection.
Lecornu also highlighted the need to revisit Macron’s pension reforms, which have been contentious since 2023. Some political factions remain steadfast in their positions, with Mathilde Panot from France Unbowed calling for Macron’s resignation and Marine Le Pen from the National Rally openly opposing a new government.
The support for a new government remains uncertain, particularly as the coalition of centrists and Republicans that has governed since last year appears to be fracturing. The critical question remains whether the Socialists will collaborate with any future government, as tensions grow and Macron’s leadership seems increasingly questioned by even his allies.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj6xjpee1xjo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss