French President, Emmanuel Macron, has appointed Defence Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, as the country’s new prime minister, following the resignation of François Bayrou after his government lost a parliamentary vote of confidence.
The 39-year-old Lecornu is a close ally of Macron and has been tasked with consulting parliamentary groups to secure agreement on the state budget and other key decisions.
The appointment comes amid a deepening political crisis in France, with protests looming in the next few days.
“Macron had told Lecornu to consult the political forces represented in parliament with a view to adopting a budget for the nation and making the agreements essential for the decisions of the coming months,” the Elysee announced.
Bayrou, who survived just nine months in office, submitted his resignation to Macron earlier on Tuesday after France’s parliament ousted the government.
The formal handover of power between Bayrou and Lecornu is due to take place on Wednesday at midday.
Macron had faced criticism for his handling of the economy, and the country is grappling with high borrowing costs and a significant debt pile.
Lecornu’s appointment is seen as a move to maintain stability and continuity in the government.
Lecornu, Defence Minister served in various ministerial roles, including Minister for Local Authorities and Minister for Overseas Territories.
Meanwhile, the Socialist Party has denounced Macron’s decision, saying it risks provoking social anger and institutional stalemate.
Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, described Lecornu’s appointment as the “final shot of Macronism”.
Former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, expressed optimism about Lecornu’s ability to find agreements with other parties, saying he “has the qualities” to discuss and find common ground.
Securing agreement on the state budget will be a crucial test of Lecornu’s leadership.
France is experiencing social unrest, with protests planned and trade unions calling for strikes.
The outcome of the upcoming presidential election remains uncertain, with analysts predicting the French far right may have its best-ever chance of winning.
