François Bayrou, a veteran centrist and ally of President Emmanuel Macron, has been named France’s new prime minister following the ousting of Michel Barnier’s minority government in a no-confidence vote, the Guardian reported.
Bayrou, 73, leader of the MoDem party and a former education minister, takes on the role as France faces a politically divided parliament and mounting public debt.
In his inaugural speech, Bayrou emphasized the need to rebuild trust between politicians and voters and to address key issues such as discrimination and economic challenges.
His immediate task is to form a government capable of passing the 2025 budget in a fragmented parliament where no party holds a majority.
Reactions to Bayrou’s appointment have been mixed. Supporters highlight his experience and ability to negotiate, while critics argue his selection signals continuity with Macron’s policies.
Opposition parties, including the far-right National Rally and left-wing groups, have set conditions for cooperation but remain skeptical of Bayrou’s ability to unite parliament.
