In a heated press conference, French President Emmanuel Macron defended his controversial decision to dissolve the National Assembly following the recent European elections. With political tensions rising amid the ongoing war in Europe between Ukraine and Russia, Macron aimed to open the way for clarity and reform, even as critics argue it could bolster the far-right lepenism in France.
Macron articulated that his move to dissolve the National Assembly is a strategic effort to overcome a legislative deadlock that had hindered effective governance. 'A dissolution is an act of clarification, an act of trust,' he maintained, emphasizing that the return to the sovereign people is the only republican decision. The relative majority in Parliament, according to Macron, made political actions less clear and obstructed long-term coalition building.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Macron noted the significant victory of the National Regrouping (RN) in the European elections, spearheaded by Marine Le Pen. This result, he argued, necessitates decisive action to counteract potential alliances between the left and extreme right, which he labeled as unnatural and damaging to France's core republican values.
In addition to addressing immediate political concerns, Macron outlined a comprehensive agenda focusing on secularism, ecology, and digital regulations. He proposed the construction of eight new nuclear reactors vital for France's energy transition away from fossil fuels and laid out plans to protect children from digital harms by banning phones for those under 11 and limiting social network access until the age of 15.
Macron also reiterated his stance on key social issues, including the need for a robust response to discrimination and promoting real integration. He committed to revising the French republic's approach to secularism and opening a debate to ensure it is correctly applied, particularly in addressing concerns from the Muslim community.
Ultimately, Macron's press conference set the stage for one of the shortest and most critical campaign periods in modern French history. With early legislative elections scheduled for June 30 and July 7, the political landscape remains precarious. Initial polls indicate that the RN could become the largest party in the National Assembly, although achieving an absolute majority remains uncertain.
- Macron criticized both ends of the political spectrum, accusing the extreme left of anti-Semitism and the right of abandoning the legacy of French political figures like General De Gaulle. He stressed the need for a centered coalition to counterbalance these extreme forces.
- Throughout the press conference, Macron insisted that he would not personally campaign for the elections, entrusting the task to the Prime Minister and majority leaders. He underscored the role of the government in leading France through these difficult times and setting a firm course for the future.
