Francois Bayrou Appointed as France’s New Prime Minister Amid Political Crisis

TL/DR –

France’s President Emmanuel Macron has named Francois Bayrou, leader of the Democratic Movement group, as his new prime minister, following a no-confidence vote that forced the former Prime Minister Michel Barnier to step down. Bayrou’s task is to restore stability in the midst of political crisis sparked by inconclusive snap elections, and he has to assemble a cabinet that can survive a no-confidence vote and prepare a 2025 budget. The political crisis has raised doubts about the completion of Macron’s term, and France’s far-right National Rally party, despite emerging as the clear victor in the snap elections, said they will not be calling for an immediate no-confidence motion against Bayrou.

French Centrist Leader Francois Bayrou Becomes New Prime Minister

Well-known French politician put in charge of leading the country out of political crisis after previous government’s downfall.

President Emmanuel Macron of France has appointed centrist Francois Bayrou as the country’s prime minister in the wake of a governmental downfall. This development was confirmed by the Elysee presidential palace on Friday.

Following the forced resignation of former Prime Minister Michel Barnier, after a historic no-confidence vote, Bayrou’s extensive political experience is deemed crucial in restoring stability. As the leader of the ally Democratic Movement (MoDem) group, Bayrou has been a prominent figure in French politics.

Bayrou’s appointment comes amidst a turbulent period in French politics. Macron’s decision to call snap elections after poor European election results plunged France into political chaos, with the far-right National Rally (RN) party emerging victorious.

Efforts to strengthen his government by Macron failed spectacularly, leading to a divided parliament without a clear majority.

Bayrou, with previous experience as education minister (1993-1997), has the immediate task of forming a cabinet capable of passing a no-confidence vote and preparing a 2025 budget to minimize economic disruption.

The newly appointed Prime Minister, recently exonerated in a case accusing him of European Parliament funds embezzlement, has received criticism from both ends of the political spectrum.

Doubts about Macron’s completion of his second presidential term (ending in 2027) are growing amidst the political instability. Despite the challenges, Macron has vowed to serve his full term till May 2027.

An embezzlement trial against Le Pen, scheduled for next year, could potentially bar her from the 2027 election.

Amid the turmoil, an Elabe poll revealed that more than two-thirds of French citizens are desiring political stability and are urging politicians to reach a deal instead of overthrowing a new government.

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