French Prime Minister Lecornu Resigns as Political Crisis Deepens in France
In a turn of events that marks one of the worst political crises since the establishment of the Fifth Republic, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has tendered his resignation less than a month after assuming office. The outgoing Prime Minister has suggested that a new premier could be in place within 48 hours. Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron faces calls for his resignation and pressure to resolve the political deadlock.
A Prolonged Political Crisis
Lecornu's resignation comes amidst a growing political crisis in France that has seen seven prime ministers step down under President Macron since he assumed office in 2017. The crisis has been exacerbated by the failure to pass a new budget aimed at addressing France's rising debt, leading to a divided parliament and plummeting popularity for Macron.
The outgoing Prime Minister, tasked with forming a government after his predecessor was ousted over an unpopular austerity budget, was in office for only 27 days, making his tenure the shortest in modern French history. His resignation came just hours after unveiling his cabinet, and only days before the government was expected to present its 2026 budget bill to parliament.
Fresh Negotiations and Potential Outcomes
Following Lecornu's resignation, President Macron has given him 48 hours for 'final negotiations'. Lecornu is set to begin new negotiations as early as Tuesday morning by receiving leaders of the 'common base'. Macron has stated that if negotiations fail by Wednesday, he 'will take his responsibilities', hinting at potential outcomes such as appointing a new prime minister, holding parliamentary elections, or resigning.
Calls for Macron's resignation, once confined to the fringes, have now entered mainstream political discourse. Even former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, once an ally, has called on Macron to resign for the sake of the country. However, a motion to impeach Macron proposed by left-wing parties was rejected by parliamentary leaders.
Reaction and Current Status
The political instability has led to diverse reactions from opposition parties and political leaders. While some, like Marine Le Pen, have called for an early election, others demand a left-wing prime minister and the suspension of pension reform.
Despite the political turmoil, Lecornu has hinted that a budget deal could still be possible. He stated that there is an 'absolute majority' of deputies opposed to the dissolution and that the conditions are met for the president to name a new prime minister 'within 48 hours'.
As France awaits an impending announcement from Lecornu, the country remains in suspense with the fate of Macron's presidency hanging in the balance. The political crisis continues to deepen, with no clear resolution in sight.