French Government Crisis: Lecornu Resigns, Political Tensions Rise
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu attempted to form a new government amid political instability, tensions within Les Républicains (LR), and lack of support from centrist allies. Lecornu arrived at the Élysée to announce a government expected to be revealed soon, but his efforts are hampered by internal disagreements and opposition. Key figures such as Agnès Pannier-Runacher announced they would not remain in the government, citing a desire for renewal and rupture with past policies. Meanwhile, Yannick Neuder, a former Minister of Health, refused a proposed government position, citing conscience and concerns over healthcare. The political landscape is further complicated by the threat of censure from opposition parties, with some calling for dissolution of Parliament, which Marine Tondelier and Jérôme Guedj argue would be ineffective or costly. The opposition also highlights the risk of strengthening the far-right Rassemblement National (RN), which polls suggest is leading in upcoming presidential preferences. Macron is scheduled to visit Egypt, and the government is revising budget and reform plans, including delaying fiscal targets and suspending pension reforms. Discussions about the future government involve conditions from LR and other parties, with some members, like Annie Genevard, intending to stay in the government despite party votes for support without participation. Calls for Macron’s resignation grow louder amid the crisis, with some political leaders warning of chaos if stability is not restored. Lecornu’s popularity has fluctuated, gaining some favor while facing criticism from others. The political deadlock raises fears of prolonged instability, with debates over dissolution, reform suspensions, and government composition ongoing.
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