French politics entered fresh turmoil after Prime Minister François Bayrou resigned on Monday. His government collapsed following a failed confidence vote in parliament.
Bayrou’s €44 billion austerity plan was at the heart of the crisis. The proposal included freezing state spending and removing two public holidays. Lawmakers rejected it decisively, with 364 votes against and only 194 in favor. The margin far exceeded the 280 votes required to topple the government.
This marks the second time in less than a year that a French prime minister has been forced out. Bayrou will officially present his resignation to President Emmanuel Macron, who now faces the challenge of appointing a successor.
The loss adds to Macron’s political difficulties after snap elections last year left him without a clear majority. Opposition parties have already warned they will resist another centrist appointment. Both far-right and far-left leaders pledged to file another no-confidence motion if Macron chooses a candidate from his own alliance.
Possible replacements include Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin. However, analysts describe the role as a “poisoned chalice” given the divided parliament.
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen has demanded fresh elections. Polls show her National Rally party leading, with the left in second place and Macron’s centrist bloc trailing.
The political crisis has shaken investor confidence. Yields on French bonds have risen above Spain, Portugal, and Greece, raising concerns about eurozone stability. Credit rating agencies may also issue a downgrade this week.
Public frustration is rising as well. Trade unions and left-wing groups are planning nationwide demonstrations under the slogan “Let’s block everything.”
With international tensions already high, instability in Paris adds to global uncertainty. Observers warn that the crisis weakens Macron’s ability to manage both domestic challenges and France’s role abroad.
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