France’s parliament voted Monday to remove the prime minister, heightening a political crisis and leaving President Emmanuel Macron with the task of appointing his fifth premier in under two years.
Francois Bayrou, 74, took office only nine months ago. Following the vote, he must resign, forcing Macron to navigate limited options as financial markets show concern over France’s political and fiscal instability.
Bayrou called the vote unexpectedly to gain parliamentary backing for his plan to reduce a rising deficit. France’s deficit is nearly double the European Union’s 3% ceiling, while the national debt has climbed to 114% of GDP.
The prime minister proposed €44 billion in budget cuts for the next year to stabilize the economy. However, opposition parties rejected the plan, focusing on the looming 2027 presidential election rather than supporting immediate savings.
Macron now faces several choices for the next prime minister. He could select someone from his centrist minority group or a conservative, but that could repeat the strategy that failed to form a stable alliance.
Alternatively, Macron might turn left, appointing a moderate socialist, or choose a technocrat to manage the government. Any choice, however, is unlikely to secure a parliamentary majority.
Finance Minister Eric Lombard said before the vote that forming a new government would likely weaken the deficit reduction plan. The government may struggle to implement the ambitious budget cuts Bayrou proposed.
Some analysts suggest Macron could call a snap election to resolve the crisis. So far, he has resisted pressure from the far-right National Rally and the hard-left France Unbowed, who both advocate dissolving parliament again.
The political turmoil underscores France’s ongoing struggle to control debt while maintaining public support. Macron’s search for a new prime minister comes at a time when investors are wary of uncertainty, and policymakers face growing pressure to stabilize public finances.
Bayrou’s resignation signals a setback for Macron’s fiscal agenda. Lawmakers from different parties have criticized the proposed cuts, highlighting deep divisions in parliament. The political deadlock now leaves France with limited options to address its mounting debt.
Observers say the new premier will face the difficult task of balancing economic reforms with political compromise. The decision will shape France’s financial outlook and test Macron’s leadership ahead of the next presidential election.
As the nation watches closely, the outcome of this political reshuffle will have wide-reaching effects on both domestic policy and international confidence in France’s economic management.
