French President Emmanuel Macron has declared he will not step down despite his government’s no-confidence vote and resignation of his prime minister, calling critics “irresponsible” and “power-hungry.”
Macron attempted to calm the country by promising a new prime minister who can form a cross-party government. He also vowed to appoint an emergency budget to avoid state services shutdowns.
The speech failed to appease his detractors, with many blaming him for recent economic issues and snap election. Macron attributed the election call to being misunderstood but refused to take blame for chaos.
Macron stated he will serve until 2027 and intends to use last remaining time “to be useful to the country.” He urged French people to work towards a new era, where compromises are built.
Critics quickly responded, with far-right leader Marine Le Pen and far-left Jean-Luc Mélenchon expressing disdain for Macron’s speech. Mélenchon pointed out that no-confidence vote was triggered by failed budget bill attempt.
Macron ended his speech by calling on French people to tap into their better natures, referencing Notre-Dame Cathedral’s reopening.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/05/world/europe/macron-france-prime-minister.html