Emmanuel Macron announces the imminent appointment of a new Prime minister
President Emmanuel Macron convened political party leaders at the Élysée Palace on Tuesday, December 10, with the notable exception of the National Rally (RN) and France Insoumise (LFI). This meeting, which lasted over two and a half hours in the winter garden of the presidential palace, aimed to establish a “method agreement” to address the ongoing political crisis. During the gathering, Emmanuel Macron announced his intention to appoint a new Prime Minister “within 48 hours.”
This decision follows the dissolution of the National Assembly, a significant political rupture. The president’s stated goal is to form a “government of national interest,” capable of bridging traditional divides while avoiding another vote of no confidence.
A complex dialogue between compromise and disagreements
Party leaders expressed often conflicting positions during the meeting. Laurent Wauquiez, representing the Republican Right, ruled out any possibility of a “governing agreement” with parties that do not share their values. On the left, the Socialist Party, represented by Olivier Faure, demanded a Prime Minister open to compromises but rejected participation in a “technical” or right-wing-led executive. The Greens also voiced reservations about a coalition involving the Republicans (LR) or Macron’s bloc.
Scenarios for Matignon
As speculation grows, several names have emerged, including centrist François Bayrou. However, sources within the presidential camp indicate that a Prime Minister from the left is unlikely. Other potential candidates, such as Sébastien Lecornu, Catherine Vautrin, or François Baroin, have been mentioned, but their candidacies have met resistance from opposition ranks.
A divided left and pensions at the forefront
Despite these consultations, tensions remain high, particularly on the left. The Insoumis, excluded from discussions after refusing to meet with Macron, denounce what they perceive as a strategy of exclusion. Meanwhile, the Socialists and Communists continue to engage in dialogue. Among the key points of contention is pension reform, with alternative proposals, such as a social conference, aimed at mitigating the effects of the controversial reform.
A crucial moment for Macron
As Emmanuel Macron prepares to leave for Poland on Thursday, the question of the next government’s composition remains unresolved. On Wednesday morning, Michel Barnier, head of the outgoing government, will preside over a Cabinet meeting focused on the “special law” budget proposal, marking his final act before the transition.
Amid widespread distrust among political blocs, the choice of the next Prime Minister could prove pivotal in restoring institutional and political stability in France.