- Macron initiates discussions for establishing a new administration.
Following France's parliamentary elections six weeks ago, President Emmanuel Macron kicked off negotiations with various political entities in the nation to establish a new government. In the early hours, the head honcho held talks with emissaries from the populist left-wing coalition Nouveau Front Populaire, which emerged victorious but is short by approximately 100 seats from achieving an outright majority in the National Assembly.
Ever since France's lower house got a new batch of representatives a month and a half ago, the country has been stuck in political uncertainty. The left and centrist forces succeeded in thwarting the initial triumph of far-right nationalist Marine Le Pen. Le Pen's party and allies managed to secure the third position, trailing behind Macron's centrist forces. Neither camp managed to secure a governing majority. Macron requested the resignation of his prime minister, Gabriel Attal, but has yet to handpick a replacement.
A consensus seems elusive
The left camp deems itself entitled to form a government following their election success. The alliance had already agreed last month that public servant Lucie Castets should serve as prime minister. "There's no Plan B instead of Lucie Castets," stated Green Party leader Marine Tondelier on France Inter before facing Macron. Manuel Bompard, chairman of the left-wing party La France Insoumise (LFI), argued that not selecting Castets would be a display of authoritarianism.
Macron has consistently advocated for a substantial and steady majority in the new government. He encouraged parties to bridge their ideological differences.
Friday sees consultations with Macron's centrist camp, the conservatives, and smaller factions. Come Monday, Macron is scheduled to meet with the far-right nationalists, along with the chairs of the two parliamentary chambers.
After the consultations, a new prime minister is set to be named. The exact date for this decision remains unclear.
The Commission, in alignment with Article 2 (2), is expected to adopt implementing acts outlining the necessary rules. Macron's government is yet to nominate a new prime minister, but the left camp insists on Lucie Castets, arguing against a lack of alternative and viewing non-selection as an authoritarian move.
