Macron political crisis/ France government collapse/ Macron new prime minister/ French protests 2024/ France debt concerns/ National Assembly no-confidence vote/ PARIS/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to stay in office through 2027 and will appoint a new prime minister within days after the resignation of Michel Barnier. Macron blamed far-right and far-left factions for the political turmoil but acknowledged his own missteps in dissolving parliament. Economic uncertainty and public protests add pressure to resolve the crisis.
France’s Macron Responds to France’s Political Crisis: Quick Looks
- Firm Stance: Macron vows to stay in office until 2027.
- New Leadership: Promises to appoint a new prime minister within days.
- Blame Game: Criticizes far-right and far-left factions for no-confidence vote.
- Economic Concerns: France’s debt could hit 7% of GDP without reforms.
- Public Protests: Teachers’ demonstrations escalate calls for Macron’s resignation.
France’s Macron Vows to Stay in Office Till End of Term, Will Name New PM
Deep Look
Macron Commits to Stability Amid Crisis
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to navigate the country out of its political deadlock following a historic no-confidence vote that ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier. Macron pledged to stay in office until his term ends in 2027 and promised to name a new prime minister within days.
“They chose disorder,” Macron said, blaming far-right and far-left factions for the government’s collapse.
While Macron condemned his political opponents, he also admitted his decision to dissolve parliament in June, which led to legislative elections and a fractured National Assembly, may have contributed to the crisis.
“I do recognize that this decision wasn’t understood,” Macron said. “But I believe it was necessary to let French voters speak.”
The Search for a New Prime Minister
Macron now faces the urgent task of appointing a new prime minister who can lead a minority government in a deeply divided parliament. With no party holding a majority, Macron has been consulting moderate Socialist leaders and other centrists to form a more stable administration.
“I recommend he decide rapidly on a new prime minister,” said Yaël Braun-Pivet, president of the National Assembly.
Macron said the new government would focus on public services, military investment, and financial reforms. A special law will be introduced to ensure tax collection begins on Jan. 1, avoiding a government shutdown.
Economic Uncertainty and Debt Woes
The political turmoil has alarmed financial markets, with France’s debt projected to rise to 7% of GDP next year without significant reforms. Rating agency Moody’s warned the crisis undermines efforts to stabilize public finances, potentially increasing borrowing costs.
Analysts say Barnier’s resignation and the legislative gridlock could worsen economic uncertainty, further complicating Macron’s efforts to address international challenges like the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Public Discontent Fuels Protests
“The only way for this to change is to have him out of office,” said Dylan Quenon, a teacher in Aubervilliers.
Others voiced concerns about the future.
“I’m glad this government is falling, but it could possibly lead to something even worse,” said Élise De La Gorce, a teacher in Stains.
Macron Looks Ahead
Despite the challenges, Macron urged unity and optimism, citing France’s successes in hosting the Paris Olympics and restoring Notre Dame Cathedral as proof of the nation’s resilience.
“For the nation, we must do the same thing,” Macron said, calling for collective effort to overcome the crisis.
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