On Saturday, thousands of protesters filled the streets across France, opposing President Emmanuel Macron’s appointment of 73-year-old Michel Barnier as the new Prime Minister.
Led mainly by left-wing parties, the demonstrations accused Macron of undermining democracy and manipulating the recent legislative elections, according to a Reuters report.
Barnier, a centre-right politician and former EU Brexit negotiator, was appointed after a two-month search following legislative elections that resulted in a hung parliament divided into three major political factions.
His appointment has provoked sharp criticism from left-wing groups, including the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, which claims Macron disregarded the election outcome to consolidate his power. In Barnier’s first speech as Prime Minister, he acknowledged the difficulties of governing without a clear majority and expressed a desire to build a coalition across the political spectrum, including conservatives, Macron’s supporters, and some from the left. However, he faces strong opposition in his efforts to push through reforms and finalize the 2025 budget.
The protests come amid increasing pressure from the European Commission and bond markets, urging France to address its growing deficit. Left-wing groups, particularly the New Popular Front (NFP) alliance, which emerged as a leading force in the July elections, have denounced Macron’s decision as a violation of democratic principles.
A poll by Elabe revealed that 74% of French citizens believe Macron ignored the election results, with 55% accusing him of effectively manipulating them.
Left-wing leaders, unions, and student groups organized nationwide protests, with the LFI party alone announcing 130 demonstrations. Strikes are planned to start on October 1.
Barnier, while attempting to form a stable government, faces the possibility of a no-confidence vote, especially with the crucial 2025 budget debate approaching in early October. The far-right National Rally (RN) party, which holds significant influence in the new parliament, has warned that Barnier is “a prime minister under surveillance,” signaling that little can be accomplished without their participation.
