French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed veteran right-wing politician Michel Barnier as the new prime minister of France after over seven weeks without a premier in office. This decision has caused controversy among left-wing voters who feel betrayed by Macron’s choice of a conservative politician, especially since the left-wing New Popular Front coalition won the most seats in the recent snap elections.
Barnier’s appointment marks a departure from the tradition of selecting a prime minister from a party that performed well in the legislative elections. Many feel that Macron’s decision to pick a conservative prime minister moves his cabinet further to the right than under the previous prime minister, Gabriel Attal.
Political analysts believe that Macron chose Barnier in an attempt to build a coalition with parties on the right to govern. Barnier, known for his expertise in negotiating, served as the European Union’s main Brexit negotiator from 2016 to 2021.
The selection of Barnier has raised concerns among left-wing voters, who fear that Macron’s decision may embolden the far right in French politics. The far-right National Rally party, despite coming in third in the elections, now holds a position of influence due to Barnier’s appointment.
The delay in selecting a new prime minister has been the longest in the history of the Fifth Republic, and left-wing protesters are planning to demonstrate against Macron’s decision in Paris. Overall, the appointment has left many feeling disillusioned and concerned about the future of French politics under Barnier’s leadership.
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