- Macron engages in consultation meetings
Following the parliamentary election six weeks ago, Emmanuel Macron, the French President, is planning to form a government. He started this process by holding discussions with representatives from the left-wing alliance Nouveau Front Populaire, which emerged as the frontrunner in the elections, albeit short of an absolute majority in the National Assembly.
The left-wing alliance expressed optimism after the meeting. The Green Party leader, Marine Tondelier, stated, "We leave this meeting with positive news." The Socialist Party chairman, Olivier Faure, added that Macron acknowledged that maintaining stability does not necessitate adhering to his previous policies. This acknowledgment is significant.
Regarding the nomination of a new prime minister, Faure mentioned, "He didn't specify an exact date, but hinted at a swift appointment." Tondelier insisted, "He needs to finish his consultations on Monday. We require an answer by Tuesday."
Macron is aiming for a broad majority in the government
In the parliamentary election, the left-wing alliance emerged as the victor, slightly outpacing Macron's centrist forces and Marine Le Pen's far-right nationalists. None of the camps managed to secure an absolute majority. Since the election, France has been marred by political stalemate. Macron accepted the resignation of his prime minister, Gabriel Attal, but has yet to appoint a new head of government.
Representatives from the Nouveau Front Populaire alliance, comprising the Left Party La France Insoumise (LFI), Communists, Socialists, and Greens, reaffirmed their claim to government control after the meeting with Macron. Their chosen candidate for the prime minister's position, Lucie Castets, declared, "From today, I am ready to build these coalitions, to engage in dialogue with other political forces in an effort to secure the stability of the country."
Macron has consistently expressed his desire for a substantial and stable majority for the government. He urged parties to collaborate regardless of their ideological leanings. The discussions now aim to identify how the parties can achieve this objective, as per the Élysée Palace.
Reconciliation of entrenched positions
After the left, Macron convened with his centrist camp. He will then meet with the conservatives and two smaller factions. On Monday, the President will meet with Marine Le Pen's far-right nationalists and the chairs of the two parliamentary chambers.
The means by which a resolution will be reached during the discussions remains uncertain. Macron's camp has consistently ruled out collaboration with the often populist LFI party. However, the left alliance insists on working together - specifically within the alliance of LFI, Communists, Greens, and Socialists.
The left-wing alliance, having emerged victorious in the parliamentary elections, is currently in negotiations with President Macron to form a majority government. Macron's aim is to secure a substantial and stable majority for the government, as expressed after the elections.
