French President Emmanuel Macron is set to announce a new prime minister on Friday morning, following the resignation of Michel Barnier after just three months in office—the shortest tenure for a prime minister in modern French history.
The Elysee Palace confirmed the announcement, which comes after Macron returned early from a trip to Poland. Barnier stepped down after losing a no-confidence vote in parliament, triggered by opposition parties after he used special powers to pass budget measures without parliamentary approval.
The no-confidence vote, the first to topple a French government in over six decades, reflects deep political divisions. Over two-thirds of respondents in a recent poll expressed frustration with the ongoing crisis and urged politicians to reach a consensus.
Macron, addressing the nation after Barnier’s resignation, pledged to fulfill his five-year mandate and ensure stability. “My responsibility requires ensuring the continuity of the state, the proper functioning of our institutions, and the protection of all of you,” he said.
Rumors suggest Macron’s top choice for the role is Francois Bayrou, though his potential appointment has sparked controversy among both left- and right-wing factions. Other candidates include former Socialist Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, and former Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.
France currently faces significant challenges, including a growing budget deficit and public dissatisfaction. Macron’s swift appointment of a new prime minister aims to restore political stability during these turbulent times.
