In a surprising development, French President Emmanuel Macron has re-appointed outgoing Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, bringing an end to days of speculation and intense negotiations aimed at resolving the country’s escalating political deadlock.
The announcement was made on Friday evening, following final discussions with representatives from major political parties in France. Earlier that day, Macron convened party leaders at the Élysée Palace, excluding those from the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) and the far-right National Rally (RN). The Élysée stated that this gathering was intended to be a moment of collective responsibility.
Significance of the re-appointment
This decision marks a pivotal moment in Macron’s presidency, which extends until 2027. With the absence of a majority in the National Assembly and increasing criticism from both opposition parties and members of his own government, Macron’s political maneuverability is significantly limited.
The political crisis intensified earlier this week when Sébastien Lecornu unexpectedly resigned on Monday, merely hours after unveiling his new cabinet. This sudden departure prompted renewed calls from opposition leaders for Macron to either resign or initiate another round of snap elections.
Navigating a fragmented government
The turmoil can be traced back to Macron’s unexpected decision in June 2024 to dissolve the National Assembly, which led to snap elections that resulted in a hung parliament, leaving no single political bloc with a majority. The newly re-appointed Prime Minister now faces the formidable challenge of navigating this divided political landscape while also pushing through next year’s contentious budget plan.
The 2026 budget is an urgent priority for France, with a submission deadline set for October 13. As the nation grapples with pressing economic issues, Lecornu’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring that the government functions effectively amidst ongoing political challenges.