France once more confronts political turmoil as Macron's latest Prime Minister fails a vote of confidence during a financial crisis.
In a dramatic turn of events, France is grappling with political instability as Prime Minister François Bayrou has been ousted from office following a confidence motion. This marks the fifth change in Prime Ministers in the space of two years, and the sixth during President Emmanuel Macron's tenure.
The crisis stems from the deep political divisions in the country, which were exacerbated by Macron's unexpected call for a snap legislative election last summer. The election saw a significant shift in the political landscape, with the avowed centrist's moderate bloc losing dozens of seats amid a surge in support for the far-right National Rally.
The confidence motion was called voluntarily by Bayrou, who knew he was unlikely to survive. The vote was sparked by unpopular austerity measures aimed at cutting government spending by β¬44 billion (Β£38 billion) from the 2026 budget. These measures included cuts to pensions, social benefits, and the removal of two paid holidays, leading to widespread public anger.
The proposed austerity measures, tied to France's high public debt (almost 115% of GDP) and risky growth strategy financed by borrowing, threaten both national stability and Europeβs financial system. The political fragmentation, with parties of the far-left and far-right gaining substantial ground, makes government formation difficult and risks further unrest and economic paralysis.
Marine Le Pen, former leader of the National Rally, accused Bayrou of committing "political suicide." Left-wing parties also indicated their intention to vote against Bayrou, further solidifying his impending defeat.
As France braces for potential unprecedented national strikes on September 10, 2025, some figures have called for Macron to resign ahead of the end of his term. However, many analysts see this as unlikely.
Despite the political turmoil, Macron has the power to call another snap parliamentary election, but it's believed he is unlikely to do this. Bayrou, in his parting words, warned that France's youth risk being burdened with debt "for the sake of the comfort of boomers" unless the government can get a grip.
France's national debt to GDP ratio currently stands at an eye-watering 114%, a stark reminder of the challenges ahead for the new Prime Minister who will be tasked with steering the country through these troubled waters.
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