In a surprising turn of events, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faced a no-confidence vote on Wednesday, leading to his resignation. The motion was prompted by budget disputes and was supported by both far-right and left-wing lawmakers in France. President Emmanuel Macron has assured that he will continue to serve his term until 2027 but will need to appoint a new prime minister for the second time due to the deeply divided parliament following July’s legislative elections.
Barnier’s decision to push through the 2025 budget without parliamentary approval using a rarely used constitutional mechanism sparked controversy and backlash from opposition parties, resulting in the filing of no-confidence motions. The looming showdown highlighted the fractures in the National Assembly, exacerbated by the lack of a clear majority after snap elections in June.
The proposed austerity budget, which included significant spending cuts and tax increases, further intensified political tensions in France and triggered the dramatic political confrontation that ultimately led to Barnier’s resignation. The use of Article 49.3 to pass the legislation without a parliamentary vote exposed the government to the possibility of no-confidence motions.
The uncertainty surrounding the government’s future and leadership transition has unsettled financial markets, leading to rising borrowing costs and concerns of prolonged instability. The aftermath of Barnier’s ouster will require Macron to appoint a new prime minister to navigate the challenges of governing a divided parliament, potentially deepening France’s economic troubles and impacting the eurozone.
Source
Photo credit apnews.com