Richard Ferrand Narrowly Appointed President of the Constitutional Council

After several days of controversy and an extremely tight vote, Richard Ferrand was confirmed as the head of the Constitutional Council on Wednesday, February 19, following a nomination by Emmanuel Macron. His appointment was validated by a single vote, thanks in part to the abstention of National Rally (RN) deputies.

A Controversial Candidacy

From the moment it was announced, Richard Ferrand’s candidacy faced strong opposition from both the left and the right. Critics pointed to his lack of legal expertise and, most notably, his close ties to the President, whom he has supported since the creation of La République en Marche.

During his hearing before the Law Committees of both the National Assembly and the Senate, Ferrand sought to reassure lawmakers about his independence: “Independence of mind is my nature and my culture,” he declared, dismissing accusations of favoritism.

A Tense Vote and Suspicions of a “Secret Deal”

Among the 97 lawmakers who participated in the vote, 39 supported Ferrand’s appointment, while 58 opposed it—one vote short of the 59 required to block his nomination. The National Rally’s abstention proved decisive and immediately sparked suspicions of a political arrangement.

“What did Marine Le Pen negotiate in exchange for this abstention?” asked Mathilde Panot, leader of the LFI (France Unbowed) deputies, accusing the RN of collusion with Macron’s government. Socialist MP Arthur Delaporte speculated that the far-right party might be “hedging its bets” in case it gains power in the future.

A Crucial Upcoming Decision

One of the first major issues Richard Ferrand’s Constitutional Council will have to rule on is whether a politician sentenced to ineligibility can still run for office while awaiting an appeal. This question directly concerns Marine Le Pen, who is facing a five-year ineligibility sentence with immediate enforcement, pending a court ruling expected on March 31.

Ferrand’s decision on this matter could have significant political consequences, potentially impacting Marine Le Pen’s ability to run in the next presidential election.