French President Emmanuel Macron has firmly ruled out appointing a prime minister from the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP), despite their recent success in the legislative elections. Macron emphasized that France requires stability, and he believes the NFP would struggle to secure a vote of confidence in parliament.
The NFP, which emerged as the largest party in the recent election, nominated Lucie Castets, a relatively unknown civil servant, as their prime ministerial candidate. In response to Macron's rejection, the NFP has called for public demonstrations and the president's impeachment.
In the elections, no single party secured a majority: the NFP won over 190 seats, Macron's centrist Ensemble alliance gained 160, and the far-right National Rally (RN) secured 140 seats. Since then, a caretaker government has been managing France's affairs, including during the Paris Olympics, which has angered the NFP.
Macron has been engaging in talks with various political leaders to form a new government. On Monday, he reiterated his commitment to avoiding a stalemate and ensuring the country remains functional. He urged the left to collaborate with other political groups, though he did not address the France Unbowed movement (LFI), a significant component of the NFP.
The LFI reacted strongly to Macron's stance. National coordinator Manuel Bompard condemned it as an "unacceptable anti-democratic coup," while Communist leader Fabien Roussel warned of a "serious crisis" triggered by Macron. Green leader Marine Tondelier criticized Macron on social media, citing that a majority of French people are seeking a change from his leadership.
The leftist coalition has previously indicated they will not participate in further negotiations unless Castets' candidacy is considered. However, the 37-year-old economist remains an unlikely choice for prime minister. Both Ensemble and RN have pledged to oppose NFP candidates.
Political discussions have also included other potential leaders, such as former Socialist interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve and Xavier Bertrand, a regional leader from the centre-right Republicans.
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