France's political landscape hit another fever pitch this weekend as Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu races to assemble a functioning government before a crucial budget deadline.
Political Turbulence in Paris
Since President Emmanuel Macron's snap polls last year delivered a hung parliament and unprecedented gains for the far right, French politics has been on shaky footing. Lecornu's first cabinet collapsed just four days into the job, triggering a wave of opposition vows to topple any new lineup at the first opportunity.
Budget Showdown
With a Tuesday deadline to present the 2026 draft budget, Lecornu faces intense pressure. France must give parliament the constitutionally mandated 70 days to scrutinize the plan before the year ends, all while the European Union urges tighter control over a debt ratio hovering above 110% of GDP.
Building Bridges or Bill-by-Bill?
The center-right Republicans, a key ally, announced they would skip the government and cooperate only on a "bill-by-bill" basis. Meanwhile, leftist Socialists warned they would topple the government unless Lecornu reverses the controversial pension reform that raised the retirement age from 62 to 64. The prime minister has pledged to include voices "not imprisoned by parties" and keep debates open on the pension issue.
The Road Ahead
Adding to the challenge, President Macron's diplomatic trip to Egypt to support a Gaza ceasefire could delay the budget's presentation. Lecornu insists he will do "everything possible" to deliver a budget by year-end, aiming to restore public finances and pull France out of its political impasse. As parties brace for intense negotiations, all eyes are on whether this fractured landscape can yield a grand coalition or remain permanently gridlocked.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
