Macron Urges Coalition Amid Political Deadlock in France
In the aftermath of the tight French legislative elections, President Emmanuel Macron has called for a coalition of parties with 'republican values' to form a solid majority in the National Assembly. This plea comes after the second round of elections ended in a deadlock, leaving no party with an absolute majority. Macron's centrist Ensemble alliance secured 163 seats, while the far-left New Popular Front (NFP) coalition, led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, emerged as the largest group with 182 seats. The far-right National Rally (RN) and its allies obtained 143 seats.
In an open letter published on Wednesday, Macron emphasized the need for a coalition excluding extreme left and right parties. He urged political forces that uphold republican institutions, the rule of law, and European orientation to engage in a 'sincere and loyal dialogue' to build a 'necessarily plural' majority. Macron's comments suggest he is not willing to collaborate with the far-left France Unbowed party, the largest faction within the NFP.
Challenges in Forming a New Government
The formation of a new government in France is proving to be a complex task. Unlike its neighbors Italy and Germany, France lacks a strong culture of coalition-building, which could lead to weeks of political negotiations and a potentially short-lived government. The newly elected deputies are scheduled to take their seats on July 18, but without a clear majority, the government faces the risk of no-confidence motions.
Macron has also rejected the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who will continue in an interim capacity until a new government is formed. This decision aims to maintain stability ahead of the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris. However, Macron's upcoming trip to Washington for the NATO summit has raised concerns among his supporters, who fear that the delay in forming a government could benefit the NFP.
The NFP, a coalition formed shortly after Macron called for early elections, includes a wide range of ideologies from the extreme left to more moderate parties. Despite the coalition's success in the elections, internal divisions remain, and the bloc has yet to appoint a leader to become Prime Minister. Mélenchon has expressed his intention to govern, stating that Macron 'has a duty' to ask the NFP to form a government.
