France’s Political Turmoil: PM Lecornu’s New Cabinet Faces Uphill Battle

In a bid to stabilize France’s fractured political landscape, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has unveiled a new cabinet, his second attempt in just over a month. This move comes amid escalating political turmoil and a looming deadline to present the 2026 national budget to parliament.

Political Crisis Deepens

The French political crisis intensified following the 2024 legislative elections, which resulted in a hung parliament. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist alliance, Ensemble, secured 159 seats, falling short of a majority. Subsequent governments led by Prime Ministers François Bayrou and Lecornu have struggled to maintain stability, with Bayrou’s government collapsing in September due to budgetary disputes. Lecornu’s first cabinet, formed in October, lasted only 27 days before resigning amid opposition criticism Wikipedia.

Cabinet Reshuffle and Key Appointments

In his new cabinet, Lecornu has retained several key ministers to ensure continuity. Roland Lescure remains as Finance Minister, a crucial position as the government seeks to pass the 2026 budget. Catherine Vautrin has been appointed as Defense Minister, while Laurent Nuñez, previously the head of Paris police, takes over as Interior Minister. Jean-Noël Barrot continues in his role as Foreign Minister Al Jazeera+1.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these appointments, Lecornu faces significant challenges. The government operates as a minority in a deeply divided parliament, with opposition parties from both the far-right and far-left expressing strong dissent. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally plans to introduce a motion of no confidence, while the Socialist Party demands the suspension of controversial pension reforms. Additionally, the conservative Republicans have expelled members who joined the cabinet, further complicating efforts to secure legislative support Reuters.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Lecornu’s reappointment and the formation of a new cabinet represent a critical juncture for France’s political future. While the government’s immediate focus is on passing the 2026 budget, its long-term stability hinges on navigating the complex political landscape and addressing the concerns of a fragmented parliament. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether Lecornu’s government can overcome the current crisis and restore confidence in France’s political institutions.