French Leader Macron endorses two prospective Prime Ministers.
Following the French parliamentary elections two months ago, it appears that the selection of a Prime Minister is imminent. Recently, President Emmanuel Macron held discussions with two potential contenders for the role, along with his two former predecessors, within the Elysee Palace. Initially, Macron met with former Socialist Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve, who might reclaim the position. The 61-year-old left the Socialist Party due to its alliance with left-wing populists, who emerged as the strongest force during the National Assembly elections, albeit failing to secure an absolute majority. Meanwhile, the government's relative majority got eroded, necessitating collaboration with new partners for governance.
Subsequently, Macron met with former Socialist president François Hollande and Conservative Nicolas Sarkozy. He also scheduled a meeting with conservative presidential candidate Xavier Bertrand later in the day, who has announced his ambition to serve as Prime Minister. There are speculations that Macron might appoint Thierry Beaudet, a current advisor on the Council for Economy, Environment, and Social Affairs. Known for fostering consensus, however, the 62-year-old lacks political experience, hinting that Macron seeks to maintain a tight grip on government affairs.
Post-June and July parliamentary elections, Macron continued to keep the previous government led by Prime Minister Gabriel Attal in place, acting as a caretaker regime. The reason cited was sensing political stability during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, set to conclude on September 11. With time running out for the formation of the new government, the incoming administration must submit a draft budget for 2025 by early October.
As per tradition, following a parliamentary election, the largest party in the National Assembly proposes a candidate for the Prime Minister role. Despite the left-wing alliance nominating newcomer Lucie Castets, she was rejected by Macron. Though the President has the freedom to appoint any individual, he relies upon the Prime Minister to secure a majority for the government's legislative proposals within the National Assembly.
Cazeneuve is reportedly "eager to assume the position out of duty," as per his supporters. Serving as Prime Minister for several months towards the end of Hollande's term, he also served as Interior Minister. He shares a good rapport with Macron, who served as Economy Minister under Hollande. On the other hand, Bertrand enjoys Sarkozy's backing, who recommended him in an interview published on Friday. However, there's division within the conservative camp, with group leader Laurent Wauquiez preferring opposition for the 2027 presidential election bid from that position.
In light of the political developments post-French parliamentary elections, it's expected that France will soon have a new Prime Minister, given President Emmanuel Macron's meetings with potential candidates like Bernard Cazeneuve and Xavier Bertrand. Despite Cazeneuve's eagerness to serve due to duty, his political background and strong relationship with Macron make him a potential contender among others, such as Bertrand, who has the support of former President Nicolas Sarkozy.
