France has unveiled a new government led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, aiming to navigate the political deadlock resulting from recent snap elections that resulted in a hung parliament.
The announcement comes after two and a half months of uncertainty following President Emmanuel Macron’s surprise decision to call early elections.
Barnier’s cabinet is designed to balance the interests of right-wingers and centrists, with a notable inclusion being Bruno Retailleau, a key figure in the conservative party of former President Nicolas Sarkozy, who secured the interior ministry in exchange for parliamentary support.
This highlights the government’s reliance on cross-party alliances to function effectively in the fragmented political landscape.
In a move reflecting the administration’s precariousness, the prestigious role of finance minister has been assigned to 33-year-old Antoine Armand, a relatively unknown member of Macron’s party.
This position had been turned down by more experienced politicians, indicating the challenges faced in securing a robust cabinet.
Armand, along with new budget minister Laurent Saint-Martin, will be tasked with drafting a budget bill by January, amidst growing concerns about France’s escalating budget deficit. In an interview with the Journal du Dimanche, he stated, “We must cut public spending and make it more efficient. If the solution was to raise taxes, France would have long been the world’s top superpower.”
As Barnier seeks to build a government that can effectively manage France’s economic challenges, the success of his cabinet will depend on its ability to forge consensus across a divided parliament.
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