Decision Follows Parliament’s No-Confidence Vote Against Michel Barnier
French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed François Bayrou, a long-time ally and centrist, as the new prime minister after the removal of Michel Barnier. Barnier was ousted last week following a parliamentary no-confidence vote triggered by budget disagreements.
Macron’s decision comes amidst mounting pressure to stabilise his government while committing to complete his term, which ends in 2027. François Bayrou was among several candidates considered for the role, including Republican defector Sébastien Lecornu, former Socialist Bernard Cazeneuve, and Xavier Bertrand, a former minister under Sarkozy and Chirac.
The announcement follows Macron’s efforts to secure political stability. On Wednesday, Maud Bregeon, government spokesperson, outlined two potential approaches to forming a functional government. One option involved broadening the alliance by including left-wing politicians alongside centrist and conservative members. The alternative was to seek non-binding agreements with left-leaning opposition parties to refrain from supporting no-confidence motions.
Macron has ruled out cooperation with far-right National Rally leader Marine Le Pen and the hard-left France Unbowed party of Jean-Luc Mélenchon, opting to engage only with moderate political forces. Discussions with Socialist leaders have been pivotal in his attempt to form a more stable coalition.
In a televised address, Macron criticised extreme left and right parties, accusing them of prioritising self-interest over governance. Referring to their unified vote against Barnier, he denounced them as a “coalition of the irresponsible” and affirmed, “I will not shoulder the irresponsibility of others.”
Bayrou’s appointment signals Macron’s intent to navigate France through its current political challenges while preserving his vision of centrist governance. The new government faces the task of addressing public concerns and maintaining parliamentary stability amidst a fragmented political landscape.
