French President Emmanuel Macron has announced his intention to name a new prime minister within the coming days, following Michel Barnier’s resignation after a no-confidence vote in parliament. The move comes after a tense standoff between Macron and opposition leaders, who have been pushing for his removal from office.
In an address to the nation on Thursday, Macron vowed to stay in his post “fully until the end of my mandate” in 2027, rejecting pressure from opponents to stand down. He also acknowledged that his decision to call snap elections last June had led to a deadlock in parliament and an escalating political crisis.
Macron met with leaders of the Socialist Party on Friday, who expressed willingness to discuss compromises on forming a “fixed-term” government. However, they made it clear that they would not support a prime minister from a right-wing party. The Socialists are part of a broader left-wing bloc, known as the New Popular Front.
As Macron navigates this delicate situation, speculation has been building over who could be his next choice for prime minister. Potential candidates include Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu and centrist former presidential candidate François Bayrou.
With no new parliamentary elections possible until July 2025, Macron faces a tight deadline to form a government that can command majority support in parliament. The upcoming visit of world leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump, will also provide an opportunity for the president to showcase his leadership skills.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdd60rzl702o