New leader amid political quagmire: Macron taps Michel Barnier as PM

On September 5, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the appointment of Michel Barnier, 73, as the new Prime Minister of France. 

This long-anticipated decision follows a political stalemate resulting from snap elections two months ago, which left no party with a clear majority and stalled the formation of a new government.

Barnier, a veteran politician from the centre-right Les Républicains party, previously served as the European Commissioner and as the head of the European Commission's relations with the United Kingdom, playing a key role in negotiating Brexit, Caliber.Az reports via French media.

His selection comes after a surprising outcome in the legislative elections, where the leftist New Popular Front alliance emerged with the most seats, while Macron’s Ensemble coalition and the far-right National Rally followed.

The appointment of Barnier has sparked criticism from left-wing politicians who argue that the prime minister should represent the voters' preference for the New Popular Front. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, stated her party would await Barnier’s policy speech before deciding on their support. Hard-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon condemned the choice, claiming it undermines the will of the French electorate.

In the interim, Macron has requested outgoing Prime Minister Gabriel Attal to continue in his role to maintain stability during a busy period, particularly as France hosted millions for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games over the summer.