Media: Macron dissolved National Assembly to avoid no confidence vote

French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to dissolve the National Assembly (lower house of parliament) to prevent the need to dissolve the government due to a threatened vote of no confidence by the opposition this autumn.

Macron stated in a conversation with journalists from regional publications that this was one of the most difficult decisions he has taken in the last seven years, La Depeche newspaper reports.

He assured that he acted "without levity" and "not alone," although the newspaper specifies that he did not consult the prime minister or the presidents of both houses of parliament.

The head of state mentioned that he discussed the issue with trusted individuals but made the decision independently, as such significant decisions "are taken alone and under his personal responsibility," the newspaper noted.

Macron declined to comment on the shock his decision caused in society. He acknowledged that the French did not understand his choice and were angry with him.

"I have understood the meaning of losing the European Parliament elections and realized the democratic consequences. If the French trust us again, things will never be the same. We will have to be even more transparent about the content of the measures we take and the way we govern," he emphasized.

The 2024-2029 European Parliament elections took place in all EU countries from June 6 to 9.