French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to appoint a new prime minister in the coming days to steer France out of its escalating political crisis. This announcement comes after Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government was ousted in a historic no-confidence vote, marking the first time in over 60 years that a French administration has been toppled in this manner.
In a televised address to the nation, Macron took a defiant stance, stating, “I will appoint a prime minister in the coming days.” He emphasized that the new leader will be tasked with forming a “government of general interest” with the immediate priority of passing a crucial budget.
Macron criticized the far-right and hard-left factions for uniting in what he called an “anti-republican front” to bring down the government. He accused lawmakers of “knowingly” choosing “to topple the budget and the government just days before the Christmas holidays.”
The political turmoil has sparked calls from opposition leaders for Macron to resign. Polls indicate that a significant majority of French citizens favor his resignation, with one survey showing up to 64% support for him stepping down. However, Macron remained resolute, declaring, “The mandate that you gave to me democratically is a five-year mandate, and I will exercise it fully, right up to the end.”
As speculation mounts over who will become France’s next prime minister, several names have emerged as potential candidates, including Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu, centrist ally François Bayrou, and former Socialist premier Bernard Cazeneuve. Given the current composition of the National Assembly, the longevity of the next government remains uncertain.
This marks the third time this year that Macron will appoint a new prime minister, highlighting the challenges his administration faces in navigating France’s complex political landscape.
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France's Macron vows to stay on, promises PM in 'coming days'
cgtn.com
