French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to accept the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal following their centrist party’s defeat in recent parliamentary elections. Despite this, Attal will remain as head of a caretaker government to oversee the Paris Olympics, which begin in 10 days.
Parliamentary Defeat and Interim Leadership
The resignation follows the Ensemble alliance’s second-place finish in the snap parliamentary vote on July 7, called by President Macron. While the National Rally (RN) won the European elections in June, it finished third in the parliamentary vote. With no party securing an outright majority, Macron asked Attal to stay on temporarily and called for mainstream parties to form a coalition with a solid majority, excluding both RN and the radical left-wing France Unbowed (LFI).
Caretaker Role for the Olympics
Attal, leaving his final cabinet meeting at the ĂlysĂ©e Palace, made no comments to the press. However, President Macron has indicated that the caretaker government could remain in place for “some weeks.” Attal expressed his commitment to stay in his role “until the very last minute” and as long as necessary, given the upcoming major events for France.
Challenges in Forming a New Government
The left-wing alliance that won the July 7 election has been unable to agree on a replacement for Attal. Infighting within the New Popular Front (NFP), particularly between its largest parties, LFI and the Socialists, has stalled progress. Recently, three of the NFPâs main partiesâthe Socialists, Greens, and Communistsâproposed Laurence Tubiana, a former diplomat and climate policy leader, as a candidate. However, LFIâs Manuel Bompard dismissed Tubiana as an unsuitable choice, highlighting the difficulties in forming a unified front.
Coalition Negotiations
The Ensemble alliance faces its own challenges in forming a coalition. Some members, like ministers GĂ©rald Darmanin and Aurore BergĂ©, have suggested partnering with the conservative Republican Right, a faction that has distanced itself from the National Rally. Macron’s decision to call a snap election, following RN’s European victory, has stirred discontent among his allies and opponents alike.
Presidential Appeal for Unity
President Macron has not publicly commented since the Ensemble alliance’s parliamentary defeat. However, he recently penned a letter urging all political parties to collaborate and form a coalition. This call for unity aims to address the political deadlock and ensure stability as the country prepares for the Paris Olympics.
