Macron Vows To Appoint New Prime Minister In Days Amid Political Turmoil.
French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to name a new prime minister within days, following the resignation of Michel Barnier after a historic no-confidence vote in parliament. The vote marked the first time in over 60 years that a French government has been toppled by such a motion, highlighting the deep divisions in France’s political landscape.
In a televised address on Thursday, Macron reaffirmed his commitment to serve as president until the end of his term in 2027. He thanked Barnier for his service during his short tenure and criticised opposition parties for uniting against his government, accusing the far right and hard left of forming an “anti-republican front.”
Michel Barnier, who had been in office for just three months, faced backlash after bypassing parliamentary approval to push through the budget using special powers. This move prompted the New Popular Front (NFP) alliance and Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (RN) to table a no-confidence motion.
The motion passed with 331 votes, significantly surpassing the required 288. As a result, Barnier resigned, and the proposed budget was withdrawn. He will continue to serve on a caretaker basis until Macron appoints a new government.
Marine Le Pen, leader of the far right RN, rejected Macron’s accusations of anti-republicanism, pointing out that the no-confidence vote is a constitutional mechanism under the Fifth Republic.
The political crisis comes amid criticism of Macron’s decision to call snap elections in July, which led to a parliamentary stalemate. Macron acknowledged the controversy surrounding his actions, stating, “The decision I took was not understood, and I take full responsibility for it.”
Macron did not reveal who the next prime minister would be, though speculation has centred on Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, and centrist François Bayrou. Securing a candidate who can navigate the fractured parliament will be a significant challenge for Macron’s administration.
The incoming government will need to focus immediately on the 2025 budget, as well as restore stability following months of political gridlock.
Despite the political turmoil, Macron highlighted recent achievements that have showcased France’s resilience and ambition. He praised the reconstruction of Notre-Dame Cathedral, which was devastated by fire in 2019. The cathedral is set to reopen on Saturday, just over five years after the blaze, an accomplishment that has drawn international admiration.
Macron also reflected on the success of the 2024 Paris Olympics, calling these milestones “proof that we can do great things.” He added, “The world admires us for that. We can do the impossible.”
With global leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump, expected to attend the Notre-Dame reopening, all eyes will be on France as it seeks to demonstrate unity and progress amid its domestic challenges.
