The left-wing alliance has emerged victorious in the French legislative elections, leading the French Socialist Party (PS) leader Olivier Faure to assert on Monday that it should propose a Prime Minister candidate "this week".
A decision, he says, will be reached through consensus, or inevitably by vote, among the various formations at the heart of the united New Popular Front. Greens leader, Marine Tondelier, meanwhile has added her voice to the chorus by stating that Emmanuel Macron must request a Prime Minister nomination from the left.
However, the Elysée Palace remains cautious on the matter. The French president, who has the power to appoint the Prime Minister, will reportedly wait for the formation of the new National Assembly before making any decisions.
French Socialist Party (PS) leader Olivier Faure. Credit: Belga
Following Sunday's results, the current political situation is uncertain. The New Popular Front (NFP, with about 180 seats), the President’s camp (with around 160 seats), and the National Rally and its allies (with over 140 seats) cannot secure an absolute majority (289 deputies).
While awaiting a hypothetical agreement between several political forces on a Prime Minister candidate and a programme, the process could extend over time. Alternatively, Macron may opt for a technical government like previously seen in Italy.
The governing and balance of power is a tricky one. Without some of the left-wing members, Macron’s group will struggle to govern. Without some of Macron’s members, the NPF may face the same problem.
Complicating matters is the explicit declaration by Macron’s camp that it will not align with La France Insoumise, a stance echoed by Jean-Luc Mélenchon’s movement.
Attal stays (for now)
As the situation develops, outgoing Prime Minister Gabriel Attal submitted his resignation to Macron.
French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday urged Attal, who had tendered his resignation, to continue in office "for now" and to "ensure the country's stability," announced the Elysée Palace.
Macron with Attal. Credit: Belga
The President expressed his gratitude for the campaigns Attal led during the European and legislative elections, the presidential office added.
Attal had arrived at the Elysée Palace on Monday morning to submit his resignation. Shortly afterwards, Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, Foreign Affairs Minister Stéphane Séjourné, and Minister for Gender Equality Aurore Bergé — all political figures from Macron's camp — also made appearances.
All three had been elected or re-elected as deputies on Sunday after the second round of legislative elections.
