President Emmanuel Macron is expected to name a new French prime minister within the next two days, according to the Elysee Palace, aiming to quell speculation about potential snap elections. This announcement comes as outgoing Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu indicated that the prospect of dissolving parliament is diminishing.
Lecornu stated that a majority in parliament recognizes the critical need to pass the budget by the year’s end, suggesting a path forward despite the political divisions. However, he acknowledged the challenges in forming a stable government, particularly with upcoming presidential elections in mind, emphasizing that any new leader should be detached from presidential ambitions.
France has been in a political stalemate since early elections in July 2024, with no single party holding a majority, making legislative progress difficult. The nation grapples with a significant national debt, and previous attempts to pass austerity budgets have led to confidence votes against former prime ministers.
Lecornu, who resigned after just 26 days, is set to present a draft budget next week, which he hopes will be open for debate rather than immediate rejection. He also noted the persistent issue of contested pension reforms, stressing the need for dialogue.
Despite Lecornu’s efforts, some political factions remain firm in their stances. Mathilde Panot of France Unbowed has called for Macron’s resignation, while Marine Le Pen of the National Rally has stated she would oppose any new government. The stability of a potential new government remains uncertain, with the previous centrist and Republican alliance showing signs of strain.
When questioned about calls for Macron’s resignation, Lecornu stressed the need for a stable, internationally recognized leader, asserting that “this is not the time to change the president.” The political landscape is further complicated by allies distancing themselves from Macron, with former prime minister Edouard Philippe even suggesting the need for an independent negotiator.
Macron has yet to address the public directly since Lecornu’s resignation, though he is expected to speak soon.