PARIS — French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to remain in office and steer France through its current political crisis after Prime Minister Michel Barnier resigned following a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. Macron, who plans to name a new prime minister within days, accused his political opponents of sowing chaos and reiterated his commitment to completing his term, which ends in 2027.
Historic No-Confidence Vote Topples Government
Barnier’s resignation came after his government was ousted by a no-confidence motion that passed with 331 votes on Wednesday, marking the shortest tenure of any French prime minister in modern history—just three months. The motion, backed by both far-right and far-left factions, has left France without a functioning government and heightened concerns about political and economic instability.
“They chose disorder,” Macron said, laying blame on his opponents for the current turmoil.
Macron’s Response and Responsibility
While Macron criticized the actions of lawmakers, he also acknowledged his role in the crisis, citing his controversial decision in June to dissolve parliament. This led to legislative elections that produced a hung parliament, with no party able to secure a majority.
“I recognize that this decision wasn’t understood,” Macron admitted. “Many people criticized me for it, but I believed it was necessary to let French voters express themselves.”
Macron emphasized the urgency of appointing a new prime minister who can lead a minority government capable of addressing key issues, particularly the 2025 budget law.
Economic Uncertainty and Political Gridlock
The political upheaval has alarmed financial markets, with analysts warning of potential consequences for France’s economy. Moody’s rating agency cautioned that the government’s fall could delay critical reforms, increasing public debt, which is projected to reach 7% of GDP next year.
“The instability reduces the likelihood of consolidating public finances,” Moody’s stated, adding that rising interest rates could exacerbate France’s fiscal challenges.
Opposition Calls for Macron’s Resignation
The no-confidence vote has galvanized opposition leaders, with far-left leader Manuel Bompard calling for Macron to step down.
“Stability requires the departure of the President of the Republic,” Bompard said.
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen, whose National Rally party holds the most seats in the Assembly, stopped short of demanding Macron’s resignation but predicted mounting pressure on the president.
Macron has dismissed such calls, reiterating his constitutional mandate to remain in office until 2027. Legislative elections cannot be held until at least July, leaving the president to navigate a precarious political landscape.
Protests and Public Discontent
The political crisis has fueled public demonstrations, with teachers protesting budget cuts in education linking their grievances to the broader political turmoil.
“Macron quit!” read signs at a protest in Paris, reflecting growing frustration with the government’s policies.
Despite Barnier’s ousting, many demonstrators expressed skepticism about the direction of Macron’s next government.
“I’m glad this government is falling, but it could lead to something even worse,” said Élise De La Gorce, a teacher from Stains.
What’s Next for France?
Macron faces mounting pressure to swiftly appoint a new prime minister capable of uniting fractured political factions and addressing urgent economic challenges. The Elysee Palace has yet to reveal a shortlist, but speculation in French media suggests Macron is considering centrist candidates who might bridge divides in the National Assembly.
“We need a leader who can speak to everyone and work to pass a new budget bill,” said Yaël Braun-Pivet, president of the National Assembly.
As France braces for the next chapter in its political saga, Macron’s ability to navigate this crisis will likely define his legacy and the country’s stability in the years to come.