French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has accused President Emmanuel Macron of executing what she described as an “administrative coup d’état” by hastening the appointment of senior officials within France’s civil service and securing key European Union positions.
In an interview with France Inter radio on Tuesday, Le Pen criticized Macron’s recent moves to fill high-ranking government roles, alleging they were intended to consolidate his influence despite electoral setbacks. She argued that Macron’s actions undermine democratic principles by preempting decisions that should be left to the next government.
“This rush to appoint officials who share his views is an attempt to neutralize the will of the voters and impose his own agenda,” Le Pen asserted. “It amounts to an administrative coup d’état when elected officials use their power to subvert the democratic process.”
The dispute between Macron’s administration and the National Rally underscores broader tensions over presidential powers and governance. Macron’s camp has been accused by the far-right of overstepping its authority ahead of potential political shifts following upcoming parliamentary elections.
Last week, Macron made headlines by nominating Thierry Breton for confirmation as French European Commissioner, drawing immediate criticism from Le Pen. Additionally, Macron’s efforts to position allies in key roles in Brussels, including the appointment of his former EU adviser Alexandre Adam, have fueled further accusations of political maneuvering.
In a recent cabinet meeting, Macron proceeded with several domestic appointments, including ambassadors, the new chief of staff of the French Air Force, and the EU director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These actions have intensified debates over the separation of powers and the president’s prerogatives in the face of electoral outcomes.
As France prepares for the second round of parliamentary elections, scheduled for this Sunday, Macron’s party faces a potential loss of its majority. The National Rally emerged as a significant force in the first round, securing 33 percent of the vote. This outcome sets the stage for a potential cohabitation scenario, where Macron may need to collaborate with the opposition to govern effectively.
Reflecting on Macron’s future influence within the EU, former Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker expressed skepticism about Macron’s capacity to shape European policy amidst domestic political challenges. Juncker emphasized that European policy direction primarily rests with member state governments, suggesting Macron’s sway could be limited in the current political climate.
The accusations leveled by Marine Le Pen against President Emmanuel Macron highlight the intensifying political contestation ahead of France’s parliamentary elections. As Macron navigates a complex electoral landscape and contends with accusations of executive overreach, the outcomes of upcoming elections will determine the course of French governance and its impact on European affairs.
