France Plunged into Political Deadlock as Prime Minister Lecornu Resigns Hours After Cabinet Unveiling

Also Read

 

France’s President Emmanuel Macron on Monday accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, just hours after unveiling his cabinet, the presidency announced — deepening the country’s ongoing political crisis and uncertainty over its economic direction.

Lecornu, who was appointed prime minister last month after serving as defence minister, had faced mounting pressure to unite a fractured parliament and secure approval for a contentious austerity budget.

---

Cabinet Backlash and Political Turmoil

The cabinet lineup, revealed late Sunday, was met with widespread criticism from across the political spectrum for offering little change and failing to address public dissatisfaction.

Opposition figures accused Macron of clinging to a tired leadership team amid growing frustration over economic stagnation and record debt levels.

According to French media reports, Lecornu’s decision to step down followed intense backlash within the National Assembly and from key party figures who questioned the government’s ability to pass the 2026 budget.

---

Budget Battle and Mounting Debt

France’s public debt has reached historic highs, with recent data showing the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio now ranks as the third highest in the European Union, after Greece and Italy.

At nearly twice the 60% threshold permitted under EU fiscal rules, France’s ballooning debt has become a political flashpoint.

The new budget proposal, described by officials as necessary “fiscal discipline,” faced fierce opposition over planned spending cuts and tax adjustments.

Lecornu’s two predecessors — François Bayrou and Michel Barnier — were both forced out in recent months after clashing with parliament over similar austerity measures.

---

Parliamentary Paralysis

France has been mired in political deadlock since Macron’s gamble on snap parliamentary elections in mid-2024 backfired, leaving his centrist alliance short of a majority in the National Assembly.

That legislative gridlock has forced the government to bypass parliament and push through three consecutive budgets using a constitutional provision that allows executive approval without a vote — a controversial move decried by the opposition as undemocratic.

Lecornu had promised last week to restore parliamentary voting on the budget to rebuild public trust, but his resignation now throws that commitment into doubt.

---

Next Steps for Macron

The Élysée Palace said President Macron would announce a new prime minister “in due course,” though analysts warn that his shrinking influence in parliament could make forming a stable government increasingly difficult.

Political observers say Macron’s options are narrowing as his presidency enters a critical phase marked by economic strain, rising populism, and deep voter fatigue.

“France is stuck in a cycle of political paralysis,” said one Paris-based political analyst. “Each resignation deepens the perception of instability and weakens Macron’s ability to govern effectively.”