In a nationally televised address, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to appoint a new prime minister “in the coming days” following the resignation of Michel Barnier. Barnier’s government was brought down by a no-confidence vote in parliament, leaving France in political uncertainty.
Defiantly addressing calls for his resignation, Macron declared his intention to remain president “fully” until the end of his term in 2027.
“The mandate you gave me in the 2022 elections is a five-year mandate, and I will exercise it fully,” Macron affirmed.
He criticized the far-right National Rally (RN) and hard-left factions for uniting in an “anti-republican front” to destabilize the government.
Macron pledged to form a “government of general interest,” emphasizing that its primary focus would be on passing a budget and addressing national priorities. The upcoming appointment of a new prime minister is expected to set the stage for a renewed approach to governance.
Macron admitted that his decision to call snap parliamentary elections, which led to a hung parliament, was poorly received.
“Many have blamed me for it, and I accept responsibility,” Macron stated.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by political divisions but reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles.
Macron accused Marine Le Pen’s National Rally of exploiting the political crisis to position itself for the 2027 presidential elections.
“They are thinking of just one thing — the presidential election, not the lives of ordinary citizens,” he asserted.
