Paris [France]: French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to complete his five-year mandate despite the resignation of Prime Minister Michel Barnier following a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. Macron assured the French people of his commitment to state continuity and institutional stability.
“Finally, the mandate that you democratically entrusted to me is a five-year mandate, and I will exercise it fully until its end. My responsibility requires ensuring the continuity of the State, the proper functioning of our institutions, the independence of our country, and the protection of all of you,” Macron said during his address to the nation from the Elysee Palace on Thursday.
Reflecting on his tenure, Macron stated, “I have been doing this from the beginning, at your side, through social crises, the Covid-19 epidemic, the return of war, inflation, and so many trials that we have shared.”
Appointment of a New Prime Minister
Macron announced his intention to appoint a new prime minister within days to lead a government capable of uniting the country and addressing pressing challenges.
“From today, a new era must begin where everyone must act for France and where new compromises must be built. Because the planet is moving forward, because the challenges are numerous, and because we must be ambitious for France. We cannot afford divisions or inaction,” Macron emphasized.
The new prime minister will be tasked with forming a government representing diverse political forces or ensuring their cooperation to avoid future censure. Macron stated, “The Prime Minister will have to lead these consultations and form a tight government at your service.”
Tribute to Michel Barnier
President Macron expressed gratitude to Michel Barnier for his short but impactful tenure. “I would like to thank Michel Barnier for the work he has done for the country, for his dedication and for his tenacity. He and his ministers rose to the occasion when so many others did not,” Macron said.
In a social media post, Macron added, “I want to thank @MichelBarnier for the work he has done for our country, for his dedication and his tenacity.”
Political Crisis and No-Confidence Vote
The resignation followed a no-confidence vote by 331 members in the 577-seat lower house, marking the first time in over six decades that a French government was toppled this way. The vote was triggered by Barnier’s use of Article 49.3 of the French constitution to bypass parliamentary approval for the social security budget bill. Opposition parties from both the far-left and far-right united against Barnier’s centrist minority government.
Barnier’s government, lasting only 74 days, consisted of an alliance between Macron’s centrist party and Les Republicains (LR). However, the informal alliance lacked a majority, leaving the government vulnerable to the opposition, including the influential National Rally (RN) party, which holds 124 seats in the National Assembly.
This political instability adds to France’s challenges, including a growing budget deficit and pressing social issues.