In a dramatic twist to France’s mounting political crisis, Edouard Philippe – Emmanuel Macron’s longest-serving prime minister – publicly urged the president to resign, calling the situation 'a distressing political game' harming the nation’s future.
Philippe's appeal comes after Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, in office just under a month, resigned Monday after failing to secure backing from the center-right coalition. Tasked by Macron to forge a broad coalition, Lecornu’s efforts stalled as the far right refused to even attend talks.
France’s summer 2024 legislative gamble resulted in a hung parliament and a strengthened far-right, marking the most severe domestic turmoil of Macron’s eight-year tenure. With the next presidential vote not due until 2027, Marine Le Pen’s far-right party senses its best chance yet to seize power.
Philippe, who has already announced his candidacy for the presidency, proposed moving the election date forward once the budget passes – a suggestion labeled a 'political bomb' by Le Parisien. He argued Macron should 'guarantee the continuity of institutions by leaving in an orderly manner.'
Major voices across the spectrum weighed in. Le Monde warned of 'the unraveling' of Macron’s second mandate. Socialist leader Olivier Faure called for a 'left-wing government,' while Republicans’ Bruno Retailleau signaled openness to a coalition – if his party’s numbers weren’t diminished.
Options on the table include reappointing Lecornu, naming a new prime minister, or calling fresh legislative elections. Any incoming premier must secure support for an austerity budget as France’s public debt soars to record highs.
Even Marine Le Pen, facing a fraud conviction that clouds her presidential bid, deemed Macron’s resignation 'wise' and urged snap elections as 'absolutely necessary.'
As France grapples with a hung parliament, budget dilemmas, and a resurgent far-right, Philippe’s bold call for Macron’s departure may set the stage for an early electoral showdown – and a pivotal moment in French politics.
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Ex-French PM urges Macron to resign amid escalating political turmoil
cgtn.com
