The political climate is tense as François Bayrou’s government continues to push forward with its 2025 budget, invoking Article 49.3 twice. The situation has sparked strong reactions from political parties, and crucial decisions are expected this week.

Opposition Parties and the Censorship Motion

La France Insoumise, staying true to its confrontational approach, immediately filed two motions of censure, which are expected to be supported by environmentalists and communists. One of these motions will be debated and put to a vote on Wednesday. However, most socialists appear to be ruling out supporting the motion. Although the PS has yet to make a final decision, its national office has announced it will oppose the motion, stressing the importance of having a budget for the French people while refusing to back the current government.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon reacted strongly, stating that the PS was leaving the left-wing alliance, a significant blow to the Nouveau Front Populaire. This political rift highlights growing tensions within the opposition, with the PS adopting a more moderate stance, prioritizing budget stability despite its dissatisfaction with the government.

Rassemblement National Faces a Dilemma

On its part, the Rassemblement National (RN) announced it would not support the censure motion against the government. Jordan Bardella, the party president, explained the dilemma faced by political parties: should they accept a bad budget or risk instability by rejecting it? Bardella emphasized that stability was the priority, arguing that the French would not benefit from further economic instability, which could have more severe consequences than the one experienced in December.

CFDT Calls for Urgency in Implementing the Budget

On the trade union front, the CFDT also stressed the urgency of implementing the budget, despite its perceived unfairness and lack of ecological ambition. Marylise Léon, the CFDT’s general secretary, highlighted that, although the budget was far from ideal, it was crucial for ensuring economic stability. However, criticism remains strong regarding the government’s social decisions, which are considered insufficient.

In conclusion, the political context surrounding the adoption of the 2025 budget is marked by growing divisions between opposition parties and a government focused on maintaining stability, even if that means resorting to 49.3 to push through its plan. It remains to be seen whether this ongoing instability will lead to a parliamentary deadlock or allow the government to weather the storm.