The first results of the runoff elections in France have revealed a significant setback for the right-wing populists, led by Marine Le Pen. Despite initial confidence, Le Pen's Rassemblement National (RN) failed to secure an absolute majority in the National Assembly. Projections indicate that the left-wing alliance, New Popular Front (NFP), will emerge as the strongest force.
The left-wing coalition, New Popular Front (NFP), which includes socialists, communists, and environmentalists, is anticipated to win between 172 and 215 seats out of the 577 in the National Assembly. President Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance is projected to secure between 150 and 180 seats, while Le Pen's RN is expected to obtain between 115 and 155 seats.
This election has been marked by high voter turnout, with the Interior Ministry reporting a participation rate of 67.7 percent, the highest in 40 years. The tactical withdrawal of over 200 candidates from other parties, aimed at consolidating votes against RN, played a crucial role in these results.
Riots broke out in Paris and other major cities following the election results. Demonstrators set fire to barricades and clashed with police, who responded with tear gas. Thousands gathered to celebrate the NFP's victory, though the demonstrations turned violent in some areas.
Political reactions to the election results have been varied. SPD foreign policy expert Michael Roth criticized the weakening of the political center, while CDU politician Armin Laschet saw potential opportunities for Germany's upcoming eastern elections. Former President François Hollande declared that he was not a candidate for Prime Minister despite his re-election to the National Assembly.
Marine Le Pen acknowledged the defeat but remained optimistic, calling the result a 'postponed victory' for her party. She emphasized that RN had doubled its number of MPs and claimed it remained the strongest party in France. However, the RN's failure to achieve an absolute majority means that President Macron will have to navigate a complex political landscape.
The election has also seen significant international attention, with Pope Francis warning against 'populist temptations' and emphasizing the importance of democracy. Artists, athletes, and organizations, including soccer star Kylian Mbappé, mobilized to prevent the rise of the far-right.
As the official results are awaited, it remains to be seen how President Macron will form his government. Options include a technical government or a large coalition excluding the RN and Rebellious France. The political landscape in France is poised for significant shifts, with the possibility of further developments in the near future.
- The French right-wing populists, led by Marine Le Pen, faced a significant defeat in the recent runoff elections. Despite initial projections that suggested a potential victory, the RN failed to secure an absolute majority.
- The left-wing coalition, New Popular Front (NFP), emerged as the strongest force in the National Assembly, securing between 172 and 215 seats. This coalition includes socialists, communists, and environmentalists.
- High voter turnout played a crucial role in the election results, with a participation rate of 67.7 percent, the highest in 40 years. Tactical withdrawals by over 200 candidates helped consolidate votes against RN.
- Riots erupted in Paris and other major cities following the election results, with demonstrators clashing with police and setting fire to barricades.
- Political reactions varied, with some seeing opportunities in the results, while others criticized the weakening of the political center. Former President François Hollande stated he was not a candidate for Prime Minister despite his re-election.
- Marine Le Pen remained optimistic despite the defeat, calling the result a 'postponed victory' and emphasizing that RN had doubled its number of MPs. However, the RN's failure to achieve an absolute majority presents challenges for President Macron.
- International figures, including Pope Francis, emphasized the importance of democracy and warned against populist temptations. Various public figures mobilized to prevent the rise of the far-right in France.
- President Macron faces the challenge of forming a new government, with options including a technical government or a large coalition excluding RN and Rebellious France. The political landscape in France is set for significant changes.
