France encounters a fresh predicament as Macron anticipates the seventh leader of his cabinet
France in Political Turmoil: Macron Seeks Seventh Premier Amidst Opposition and Unrest
France is once again embroiled in political upheaval, as President Emmanuel Macron scrambles to appoint a seventh prime minister of his presidency. The turmoil began when Prime Minister François Bayrou resigned after losing a confidence vote in the National Assembly, following the presentation of Bayrou's austerity budget, which proposed €44 billion in savings.
As Macron navigates the challenging political landscape of a fragmented National Assembly, he has considered various candidates for the role of premier. Among them are Gerald Darmanin, the Justice Minister, and Eric Lombard, the Finance Minister. However, both are seen as polarizing figures, with Darmanin being too divisive and Lombard's right-leaning tendencies raising concerns.
In an attempt to appease conservatives, Macron has considered naming Bruno Retailleau, leader of the Republicans. However, the Republicans lack the numbers to guarantee stability, leaving Macron with a difficult decision. Catherine Vautrin, the Health Minister, is often tipped as a compromise figure, but her lack of political experience may be a concern.
Meanwhile, the left-wing coalition "Block Everything" is organizing nationwide action, with unions planning strikes on September 18. The left hopes to reassert itself after years in opposition, and the Socialist Party has signaled its readiness to govern. Olivier Faure, the Socialist Party leader, has openly expressed a willingness to serve, though his survival in the role is uncertain.
Marine Le Pen and her far-right National Rally have warned they will bring down any government that continues Macron's policies. The ongoing turmoil could pave the way for the far right in the 2027 presidential election. Francois Villeroy de Galhau and Thierry Beaudet are potential technocratic candidates for Prime Minister, while elder statesmen such as Jean-Yves Le Drian and Pierre Moscovici are also seen as consensus-building options.
A third premier being ousted within a year may lead to Macron dissolving parliament and calling snap elections. However, Macron has ruled out stepping down or calling early elections for now. As the political landscape continues to shift, it remains to be seen who will emerge as the next prime minister of France.
