By Elizabeth Pineau and Ingrid Melander
French President Emmanuel Macron made a bold move by appointing Michel Barnier, the former EU Brexit negotiator, as his new prime minister. This decision comes after weeks of uncertainty following a snap election that left the government in a state of limbo.
Barnier, a seasoned politician at the age of 73, is known for his role in leading the EU's negotiations with Britain during its departure from the bloc. Prior to this, he has held various positions in the French government and also served as an EU Commissioner.
Macron's decision to choose Barnier as prime minister comes after considering several other candidates who failed to gain enough support to ensure a stable government. However, with the far-right National Rally party signaling a willingness to work with Barnier under certain conditions, there is hope for progress.
Despite being a pro-European moderate, Barnier's recent shift in rhetoric towards tougher stances on issues like immigration aligns with some of the views held by the RN. This could potentially pave the way for cooperation between the government and the opposition.
Following a disappointing snap election that saw Macron's centrist coalition lose ground, the political landscape in France remains uncertain. With no party securing a majority, the formation of a new government under Barnier's leadership raises questions about the future direction of the country.
While the RN has expressed cautious optimism about working with Barnier, their demands for early parliamentary dissolution and electoral reform could pose challenges for the new government. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Macron's gamble pays off or if France is headed for further political turmoil.
Overall, Macron's appointment of Barnier as prime minister signals a shift in the country's leadership and sets the stage for potential collaborations across party lines. Whether this move will lead to much-needed reforms and stability remains to be seen, but it marks a significant development in France's political landscape.