Macron Seeks Coalition Amid Political Turmoil Fo...

Macron Seeks Coalition Amid Political Turmoil Following PM's Ouster

Zim Now Writer

French President Emmanuel Macron faces mounting challenges as he searches for a new prime minister following the dramatic ousting of Michel Barnier in a no-confidence vote over his belt-tightening 2025 budget proposal. Macron's call for stability comes as he works to navigate a deeply fragmented parliament and growing discontent across political lines.

The Socialist Party, holding 66 seats in the National Assembly, has emerged as a potential kingmaker. Party leader Olivier Faure signaled openness to a coalition but insisted that any partnership must prioritize left-wing policies.

“We want a left-wing prime minister and left-wing policies,” Faure said after meeting Macron, while ruling out collaboration with another right-wing candidate.

This shift has exposed cracks within the leftist New Popular Front alliance. Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the radical France Unbowed, criticized Faure for engaging with Macron, accusing him of undermining the bloc's unity.

The crisis traces back to Macron’s decision to call snap elections earlier this year, which resulted in a hung parliament. In a defiant national address, Macron rejected calls to resign and blamed opposition lawmakers for triggering instability. He accused both far-right and hard-left factions of prioritizing political ambitions for the 2027 presidential election over governance.

Despite his firm stance, Macron faces an uphill battle. The Socialists’ support could provide a pathway to stability, but any coalition must include other left-leaning parties like the Greens and Communists to achieve a functional majority. Meanwhile, Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally and other factions remain poised to challenge the government at every turn.

The stakes are high, with financial markets rattled by France's rising budget deficit and increasing borrowing costs. Macron has pledged to move forward with the 2025 budget in the new year, warning against leaving French citizens to shoulder the costs of political deadlock.

As Macron works to consolidate support, the question remains: can he secure a coalition strong enough to weather the storm and restore stability to France's government?