Paris, September 7 (FinanceFlashNews) — Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across France on Saturday to protest President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to appoint Michel Barnier as prime minister. The appointment of Barnier, a conservative former EU Brexit negotiator, has sparked anger, particularly among left-wing groups, who accuse Macron of ignoring the results of the July legislative elections, which favored the New Popular Front (NFP).
Barnier, aged 73, was named prime minister after a two-month search following Macron’s failed attempt to secure a clear parliamentary majority through early elections, which resulted in a hung parliament.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the left-wing France Unbowed party, addressed a large crowd in Paris, stating: “Democracy means accepting defeat, not just victory.” Mélenchon called for continuous resistance to what he described as an undemocratic appointment.
Nationwide Protests
Protests occurred in over 130 cities across France, with organizers estimating around 300,000 people took part, including 160,000 in Paris. However, police reports placed the Paris figure at 26,000. Demonstrators carried banners accusing Macron of betraying the electorate by selecting Barnier, whose Les Républicains party holds only a minority in the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, Barnier made his first public appearance as prime minister at a Paris hospital, where he acknowledged the challenges facing France’s public health system. “We cannot perform miracles, but we can bring real improvements,” Barnier stated, addressing the need for reforms in the healthcare sector.
No-Confidence Vote Expected
Barnier’s appointment faces significant opposition, with a potential no-confidence vote looming in early October. The far-left New Popular Front and far-right National Rally (RN) could unite, as they hold a majority in parliament. The RN has not yet taken a firm stance, positioning itself as a key player in the forthcoming vote.
Recent polls show widespread dissatisfaction, with 74% of French citizens believing that Macron ignored the election outcome, and 55% accusing him of bypassing the NFP’s candidate for prime minister.
Key Points:
- Michel Barnier’s appointment as prime minister has sparked mass protests across France.
- 300,000 demonstrators protested nationwide, with 160,000 in Paris.
- Jean-Luc Mélenchon leads the opposition, criticizing Macron’s decision as undemocratic.
- A no-confidence vote could be held in October, posing a major challenge for Barnier’s government.
