Michel Barnier is the new Prime Minister of France. Photo: Reuters
Negotiations to form a new government in France have been significantly complicated by the different positions of the three main political groups in parliament and the prospect of presidential elections in 2027. This makes any possibility of an agreement even less realistic, according to AFP, Reuters and the Financial Times.
Barnier’s resignation and a new challenge for Macron
Prime Minister Michel Barnier, who resigned after the far-right and far-left voted to oust the government, visited the Elysee Palace to submit his resignation to President Emmanuel Macron. This comes after the French parliament, which lacks a clear majority, rejected his budget plan aimed at reducing the deficit.
Macron and his options
After losing the snap election in July, Macron faces limited options. The French president is trying to find a new prime minister amid political instability and a lack of a majority in parliament. Financial markets are also concerned about the situation, in particular due to the potential disruption of budget plans.
Among the candidates for prime minister discussed in the press are Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu, centrist François Bayrou and former Prime Minister Bernard Kaznev.
Crisis situation and budgetary challenge
One of the most difficult tasks for Macron is to adopt the budget for next year on time. If the budget is delayed, the country could be on the verge of an economic crisis. Analysts say that in the event of a delay, the parliament may adopt temporary solutions, which will increase the budget deficit.
Prospects for coalitions and the 2027 presidential election
The political situation is complicated by the fact that many parties are focused on the upcoming presidential elections in 2027, making compromises in parliament even more difficult. Far-right and far-left parties are keen to promote their own priorities, making a stable coalition unlikely.
One solution proposed is a non-aggression pact between MPs to establish basic policies to avoid another fall of the government.
Uncertainty and possible scenarios
If the parliament fails to pass a budget by the end of the year, the country could face an unprecedented situation that would lead to the appointment of an interim government. This scenario could significantly increase the budget deficit in 2025.
“We are entering uncharted territory,” said constitutional law expert Denis Baranger, stressing that the situation is extremely unpredictable.
