French President Emmanuel Macron will name a new prime minister within 48 hours, the Elysee Palace has confirmed, quelling rumors of imminent elections amidst ongoing political instability.
This announcement follows the resignation of outgoing Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who indicated that the possibility of dissolving parliament was diminishing after discussions with political parties. Lecornu remarked, There is a majority in parliament that is eager to avoid new elections.
Lecornu became the third prime minister to leave the position in under a year, facing challenges from a hung parliament that remains ideologically divided. The president had requested Lecornu stay on for an additional two days to help forge a political consensus amidst the current crisis.
In a highly anticipated television interview, Lecornu acknowledged that while the urgency to pass a budget was recognized by many MPs, the fragmented political landscape continues to complicate governance. He emphasized that any new government leader must be free from presidential ambitions, particularly with the next presidential election in sight.
The political stalemate has persisted since the snap elections held in July 2024, as no single party has been able to secure a majority, thus hindering legislative progress necessary for addressing France's soaring national debt, which currently stands at €3.4 trillion, representing nearly 114% of the country's GDP.
Previous prime ministers before Lecornu succumbed to confidence votes following the introduction of controversial austerity measures. Although Lecornu's proposed budget is set to be unveiled next week, he urged parliamentary factions to engage in constructive debate rather than outright dismissal.
The backdrop of the ongoing crisis also includes discussions about contentious pension reforms initiated by Macron, which have remained unresolved since 2023. However, factions within parliament appear steadfast in their stances, with calls for Macron's resignation echoing from figures like Mathilde Panot of the radical left and Marine Le Pen from the far-right National Rally.
Amidst growing isolation, even some of Macron's closest allies have begun to question his leadership. Gabriel Attal, seen as a protégé, has voiced a need for an independent negotiator to lead the government. As it stands, the next steps for Macron and the future of France's leadership remain uncertain, with the imminent prime ministerial appointment being the first crucial move.
