Race to Matignon: Who will be France’s next PM?

Speculation is mounting over who will succeed Michel Barnier as France’s next Prime Minister.

With names like Sébastien Lecornu, François Bayrou, and Bernard Cazeneuve in the mix, Emmanuel Macron is reportedly eager to announce his decision before the grand reopening of Notre Dame this weekend, Caliber.Az reports via French media.

Insiders suggest he wants to move quickly, though scepticism lingers after past reshuffles dragged on for weeks.

Behind closed doors, Macron’s team is searching for a candidate who can stabilize the government amid mounting challenges from the far-right National Rally (RN) and far-left France Unbowed (LFI). Some advisors advocate a bold coalition with Socialists, Greens, and Communists, while others suggest a pivot to the right, with François Baroin emerging as a serious contender. The mayor of Troyes, with his extensive political experience and broad appeal, is seen as someone who could unite enough factions to form a working majority.

Baroin, long considered a "Plan B" in French politics, is reportedly signalling strong interest in the role. Meanwhile, Sébastien Lecornu, the current Armed Forces Minister, remains a contender due to his neutrality with the RN, though his appointment could fracture Macron’s own ranks.

As rumours swirl and phones buzz with backroom negotiations, Macron remains tight-lipped. “He’s a sphinx,” a close confidant remarked, adding to the intrigue surrounding his decision.

For now, the race to replace Michel Barnier continues, with the clock ticking and political tensions rising. Whether Macron opts for a familiar figure like Baroin or a calculated gamble with Lecornu, the choice will shape the direction of his presidency — and France’s future.

As speculation grows and negotiations intensify, all eyes are on the Élysée, where the decision is expected soon with the possibility of the announcement even this evening, December 5.

By Tamilla Hasanova