France’s new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou faces a daunting task as he prepares to lead a government in a deeply divided country with no clear parliamentary majority. This challenge was acknowledged by Bayrou himself, who is a close ally of French President Emmanuel Macron. Despite the difficult circumstances, Bayrou’s priority will be to navigate through passing a special law to roll over the 2024 budget, with a potentially tougher battle over the 2025 legislation on the horizon.
The appointment of Bayrou as Macron’s fourth prime minister of 2024 comes after the downfall of former Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government due to parliamentary pushback over the 2025 bill. Although there were concerns from some, such as Jordan Bardella from the far-right National Rally party, about Bayrou potentially becoming a “dummy of Macronism,” there are no immediate plans for a no-confidence motion against him.
The reactions to Bayrou’s appointment among Parisians were mixed, with some expressing deep disappointment while others showed a lack of surprise or excitement. Edwige Lucbernet, a Parisian, described the news as “super disappointing.” As Bayrou takes on his new role, it remains to be seen how he will navigate the challenges ahead in leading a government in a politically polarized environment.
Watch the video by Global News
Video “Macron names close ally Francois Bayrou new prime minister of France” was uploaded on 12/13/2024 to Youtube Channel Global News