Thousands of protesters flooded the streets across France on Saturday, expressing their anger over President Emmanuel Macron’s appointment of 73-year-old Michel Barnier as the new Prime Minister.
The protests were primarily led by left-wing parties who accused Macron of undermining democracy and manipulating the results of the recent legislative elections, Reuters reported.
Barnier, a centre-right politician and former EU Brexit negotiator, was appointed Prime Minister after a two-month search following legislative elections that resulted in a hung parliament, divided into three major political blocs.
His appointment has triggered a strong backlash from left-wing groups, including the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, which alleges that Macron disregarded the election results to consolidate power.
In his first speech as Prime Minister, Barnier acknowledged the challenges of forming a government without a clear majority and expressed his intention to include members from across the political spectrum, including conservatives, Macron’s allies, and some from the left. Despite these conciliatory remarks, he faces significant hurdles in passing reforms and preparing the 2025 budget amid widespread opposition.
The protests occur as France faces increasing pressure from the European Commission and bond markets to address its growing deficit. However, left-wing groups, especially the New Popular Front (NFP) alliance, which emerged as the top force in the July elections, have condemned Macron’s move as a denial of democracy.
According to an Elabe poll, 74% of French citizens feel that Macron ignored the election results, with 55% accusing him of effectively stealing them.
Nationwide protests have been organized by left-wing leaders, unions, and student groups, with the LFI party alone planning 130 demonstrations. There are also potential strikes on the horizon, set to begin on October 1.
As Barnier continues consultations to form a stable government, he faces the looming threat of a no-confidence vote, particularly with the 2025 budget debate set for early October. With the far-right National Rally (RN) party wielding considerable influence in the new parliament, RN leader Jordan Bardella warned that Barnier “is a prime minister under surveillance,” indicating that no significant moves can be made without their input.
