French President Macron Accepts Resignation of Prime Minister, Attal Remains as Head of Caretaker Government
ICARO Media Group
In a move to ensure stability during the upcoming Paris Olympics, French President Emmanuel Macron has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal. However, Attal will continue to lead a caretaker government until a new prime minister is appointed.
The announcement was made by Macron's office, stating that Attal and other government members will handle current affairs until a new government is formed. With no clear timeline for the appointment of a new prime minister, Attal's caretaker government will focus solely on day-to-day matters.
Macron emphasized the need for unity among all Republican forces, urging them to work together on projects that benefit the French people. This call for collaboration comes in light of the recent parliamentary elections which resulted in a fragmented National Assembly, with no dominant political bloc in power for the first time in France's modern Republic.
Attal's unique position as head of a caretaker government allows him to take up his seat as a lawmaker in the National Assembly. This move also shields him from a potential no-confidence vote, as a caretaker government cannot be subject to such a vote.
The political landscape in France remains turbulent, with three major groupings vying for power: the New Popular Front leftist coalition, Macron's centrist allies, and the far-right National Rally led by Marine Le Pen. The leftist coalition, comprising France Unbowed, the Socialists, and the Greens, has called on Macron to form a new government with their support. However, internal disagreements within the leftist coalition have stalled progress.
France Unbowed suspended talks with the Socialists, accusing them of sabotaging their proposed candidates for the prime minister's role. Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure has urged the coalition to resume discussions and fulfill their promise to govern effectively. While Faure acknowledged the negative optics of lengthy discussions and heated exchanges, he emphasized the importance of meeting the public's expectations.
In response, National Rally vice president Sebastien Chenu criticized Macron for retaining Attal at the head of government, citing a "denial of democracy." Chenu called for Attal and his ministers to step down and make way for new leadership.
The struggle for power extends to the National Assembly as well, with politicians from different groups vying for the presidency and key committees. A lawmaker from France Unbowed expressed support for preventing lawmakers from Marine Le Pen's National Rally from occupying prominent positions in parliamentary committees. However, Le Pen stressed the importance of all political forces being represented in the functioning of the parliament, particularly since they were elected by the people.
As the opening session of the National Assembly approaches, all eyes are on Macron as he navigates this complex political landscape to form a new government. The Paris Olympics loom in the background, urging swift action to ensure a stable and efficient administration for the prestigious international event.