President Emmanuel Macron has named Michel Barnier, former Brexit negotiator for the European Union, as France’s new prime minister in an effort to end over 50 days of political gridlock following a snap parliamentary election. Macron’s centrist coalition lost seats in the election, with the left-wing New Popular Front coming first. However, Macron ruled out working with this alliance after other parties expressed opposition.
Barnier, a right-winger from the Republicans party, faces the challenge of pushing through reforms and the 2025 budget in a hung parliament. Macron is hoping the far-right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen will not block Barnier’s appointment. The decision to appoint Barnier followed extensive efforts by Macron to find a candidate who could build support in parliament and overcome opposition from his rivals.
Barnier is seen as a popular figure among right-wing lawmakers without alienating those on the left. However, there are concerns that Le Pen’s influence may be a deciding factor in Barnier’s success. Bardella of the National Rally party stated that Barnier will be judged based on his actions, while the Greens leader Tondelier criticized Macron for appearing to submit to Le Pen’s influence.
Overall, Macron’s choice of Barnier as prime minister is seen as a strategic move to break the political impasse in France and move forward with much-needed reforms. The success of Barnier’s government will depend on his ability to navigate the challenges of a fractured parliament and political landscape.
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