By 9jaeye 
In a significant political move, French President Emmanuel Macron has named Michel Barnier as the new Prime Minister of France after a contentious parliamentary election resulted in no clear majority. Barnier, a prominent conservative figure known for his role in the European Union’s Brexit negotiations with the UK, steps into this crucial role at a challenging time.
The announcement was made on Saturday, with Barnier’s immediate priority being the formulation of a budget plan for 2025. This plan aims to address France’s pressing financial challenges, which Barnier himself has described as “very serious.”
Following the election, where the left-wing coalition New Popular Front (NFP) secured the highest number of parliamentary seats but fell short of an overall majority, Barnier faces the task of creating a stable government. Opposition parties have already indicated their intent to challenge his administration with a confidence motion.
Macron has expressed skepticism about the left’s ability to form a functional government, suggesting that it would likely collapse under parliamentary scrutiny. As such, Barnier’s cabinet is expected to draw support primarily from Macron’s political allies, the conservative Republicans (LR), and centrist groups.
However, the new government faces immediate backlash. Jordan Bardella, leader of the far-right National Rally (RN), criticized the cabinet’s formation as a “return to Macronism,” claiming it lacks a viable future. Meanwhile, far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon described the government as one representing the “losers” of the general election, calling for its swift removal.
Key appointments in Barnier’s cabinet include Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, a centrist, and Bruno Retailleau, a conservative, taking charge of the interior ministry, which oversees immigration policy. Sebastien Lecornu, a close ally of Macron, retains his position as Defence Minister. Notably, 33-year-old Antoine Armand, previously head of the economic affairs commission in parliament, will present the crucial budget proposal next month.
In the lead-up to Barnier’s appointment, protests erupted in major cities, including Paris and Marseille, as thousands voiced their discontent over what they perceive as a government that fails to represent the electoral outcome. Demonstrator Violette Bourguignon, 21, expressed her frustration, questioning the purpose of elections if the results are disregarded.
As Barnier takes on the complexities of governance in this new role, all eyes will be on how effectively he can navigate the political landscape and address the pressing issues facing France.