French President Emmanuel Macron vowed on Thursday to stay in office until the end of his term in 2027 and announced plans to name a new prime minister within days of Michel Barnier’s resignation following a no-confidence vote.
Macron left France without a functioning government just a day after the historic vote in the National Assembly. He blamed the far-right opposition for bringing down Barnier’s administration, accusing them of preferring chaos to governance.
“They chose disorder,” Macron said.
The president criticized both the right and the left for uniting in what he called an “anti-Republican front.” Emphasizing his resolve, he declared, “I will not shoulder the irresponsibility of others.”
Macron confirmed he would appoint a new prime minister within days but gave no indication of possible candidates.
While attacking his political opponents, Macron acknowledged his own role in the current political turmoil, which has destabilized financial markets.
Reflecting on his decision to dissolve parliament in June, which led to legislative elections and the resulting hung parliament, Macron admitted, “I admit that the decision was not understood. Many criticized me. I know many will continue to criticize me for it.” , he stressed, “I think it was necessary” to let voters have their say.
Earlier on Thursday, the Elysee Palace issued a statement confirming that Macron had “taken note” of Barnier’s resignation. Bernier and his ministers will remain in charge of current affairs until a new government is formed.
The The motion of no confidence was passed by 331 votes, forcing Bernier to resign After three months in office – the shortest tenure for any French prime minister in modern history.
Macron said the new prime minister will be tasked with forming a government of national interest that represents all political forces committed to avoiding further no-confidence votes.
“The priority will be to pass the budget law for 2025,” he said.
Macron criticized lawmakers for their actions, accusing them of focusing on personal political ambitions rather than the needs of the country. He highlighted the timing of polling, which comes as the end-of-year holidays.
Why did the MP behave like this? They are not thinking about you, your life, your difficulties,” he said. “They’re only thinking about one thing: the presidential election — to prepare it, to stir it up, to speed it up.”
Despite the political crisis, Macron reaffirmed his desire to complete the remaining 30 months of his second and final term as president.
(With input from The Associated Press)
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