French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to steer France through a deepening political crisis following the resignation of Prime Minister Michel Barnier, who was ousted by a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly.
Macron, speaking to the nation on Thursday, promised to appoint a new prime minister within days, vowing to fulfill his term until 2027 despite mounting pressure from political rivals. He criticized the far-right for what he described as an attempt to create “chaos” after the government’s collapse.
The no-confidence motion, which passed with 331 votes, ended Barnier’s term after just three months — the shortest tenure for a French prime minister in modern history.
Public and political reactions
The vote has left France without a functioning government and drawn mixed reactions. Outside the National Assembly, some Parisians voiced frustration. “We need stability now, not more political games,” said Laurent Bernard, a small business owner.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders have seized the moment to criticize Macron. Far-left leader Manuel Bompard demanded the president’s resignation, arguing he had “lost all authority.” Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, whose party holds the most seats in the Assembly, stopped short of calling for Macron to step down but warned that “pressure on the president will only grow.”
Macron dismissed these calls, ruling out early legislative elections. “I was elected to serve until 2027, and I will honor that responsibility,” he said, adding that the constitution does not require a president to step down after a government’s collapse.
Economic and global implications
The political instability has sparked concerns about France’s economy and its influence within the EU. Analysts warn that prolonged uncertainty could increase borrowing costs, complicating efforts to reduce public debt.
Moody’s, a credit rating agency, cautioned that the government’s collapse might delay vital fiscal reforms. “This instability reduces the likelihood of meaningful public finance consolidation,” it said.
Macron is now tasked with appointing a new prime minister capable of navigating a fragmented parliament, where no party holds a majority. Reports suggest he is considering centrist figures who could appeal to both sides of the political spectrum.
A race against time
National Assembly President Yaël Braun-Pivet urged Macron to act swiftly. “We need a leader who can unite lawmakers and pass critical legislation, particularly the budget,” she told France Inter radio.
With international markets watching closely, Macron faces mounting pressure to restore stability both domestically and on the global stage. His next moves will determine whether France can regain its political footing or plunge deeper into crisis.
