Macron Delays New Government Announcement Until After Olympics

In a surprising move, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that he will not appoint a new government until after the Olympic Games, which end in mid-August. His decision comes amid political uncertainty following the recent legislative elections, which failed to produce a clear majority.

Macron recently rejected the nomination of Lucie Castets, proposed by the left coalition, for the Prime Minister position. He argued that the Nouveau Front populaire coalition does not hold a majority in the National Assembly, which is the lower house of the French Parliament.

The political situation in France has been tense since Macron dissolved the Assembly in June, sparking a crisis. Just over two weeks after the elections, it remains unclear how the political landscape will shape itself, leading to growing impatience among French citizens.

“Until mid-August, we must focus on the Games. After that, it will be my responsibility to appoint a Prime Minister who can gather a broad coalition to ensure stability,” Macron stated during a TV interview.

Following a surprising first round of elections on June 30, where far-right candidates scored historical highs, the subsequent round on July 7 resulted in a divided Assembly with three major blocs. In light of this division, Macron accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal.

On the same day, the President urged political forces in the «republican front» that opposed the far-right in the elections to rise to the occasion and seek compromises. This plea comes just one hour after the left coalition announced Lucie Castets as their candidate for Prime Minister.

Despite her being an unfamiliar name to many, the left coalition advocated for her deep commitment to defending public services. However, Macron decisively ruled out her appointment, emphasizing that no party can implement its program independently in the current fractured political climate.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the far-left La France insoumise party, criticized Macron’s rejection of Castets, accusing him of attempting to force his “republican front” agenda. He firmly stated that an alliance with Macron is out of the question.

Olivier Faure, head of the Socialist Party, echoed Mélenchon’s sentiments, arguing that the republican front is merely a democratic reflex and not a comprehensive program. As France prepares to host over 10,500 athletes and millions of visitors for the Olympics from July 26 to August 11, the focus remains on the unfolding political drama.