France remains gripped by its worst political turmoil since the creation of the Fifth Republic in 1958. The crisis began after President Emmanuel Macron’s snap parliamentary elections last year produced a divided parliament with no clear majority, paralyzing governance. Sebastien Lecornu, appointed prime minister just days ago, resigned on Monday after his new government was rejected by both allies and opponents making it the shortest-lived administration in modern French history.
Why It Matters
The ongoing deadlock threatens to undermine France’s global credibility and its economic stability, with investors and business leaders voicing alarm over political paralysis. Macron’s shrinking political space leaves him with few viable options to rebuild consensus before the situation spills over into a full-blown governance crisis.
Lawmakers across party lines expressed frustration and confusion over Macron’s latest political maneuvers. Former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal said he “no longer understands the president’s decisions,” reflecting growing discontent even within centrist ranks. Business groups, including the influential Medef employers’ federation, warned that the uncertainty is damaging confidence, urging all parties to act responsibly to restore stability.
What’s Next
Lecornu is holding two days of consultations with leaders from the conservative Les Republicains, Macron’s Renaissance party, and other factions. President Macron has set a Wednesday evening deadline for outcomes, after which he must decide whether to appoint a new prime minister, reappoint Lecornu, or pursue another risky political reset.
With information from Reuters.
