Tensions Rise Within the New Popular Front Over Prime Minister Nomination
Negotiations within the New Popular Front (NFP) have hit a significant roadblock as Huguette Bello, the president of the Réunion region, declined the offer to become prime minister. This decision came after 48 hours of intense speculation and mounting tensions within the left. Bello's name was initially suggested by Fabien Roussel, the national secretary of the Communist Party (PCF), and had garnered support from La France Insoumise (LFI). However, the proposal did not receive backing from the National Council of the Socialist Party (PS) during their Saturday evening meeting. Pierre Jouvet, the PS secretary general, stated, "There is no consensus on any name."
Disagreements and Reactions from Left-Wing Leaders
The refusal to support Bello has caused disarray within the NFP, which had emerged victorious in the second round of legislative elections and claimed the right to form the government. Leaders from various left-wing factions expressed their discontent with the PS's decision. Fabien Roussel lamented the lack of unity, stating, "This is the result of the lack of clarity of several forces within the New Popular Front in supporting this proposal." He called for an urgent meeting among party leaders to resolve the deadlock.
LFI MP Clémence Guetté criticized the PS for not providing any political arguments against Bello's candidacy. Meanwhile, Marine Tondelier from the Ecologists expressed disappointment but remained open to further discussions. She noted that while her party welcomed Bello's candidacy with enthusiasm, they were not given a chance to meet her and defend her candidacy.
Olivier Faure, the first secretary of the PS, reiterated his willingness to find a suitable candidate by July 18, the date set for the meeting of the new Assembly and the election of its president. In contrast, the Macronists are exploring a potential agreement with the right-wing Les Républicains (LR) to counter the NFP. Édouard Philippe has called for a "technical agreement" with LR, while several LR figures have suggested appointing a prime minister from their party.
- The PS's rejection of Huguette Bello's candidacy has led to a swift response from LFI, with Manuel Bompard criticizing the Socialist Party for its obstructionist stance. LFI convened a coordination meeting to discuss the persistent blockages from the PS against any candidate other than Olivier Faure.
- Fabien Roussel, who proposed Bello's candidacy, acknowledged the impatience and pressure within the NFP but urged partners to trust each other. He emphasized that nothing is insurmountable at this stage, calling for continued discussions to reach a consensus.
- As tensions simmer, rebellious demonstrators have expressed their frustration by spray-painting the gate of the Socialist Party's headquarters. Despite the disagreements, environmentalist MP Benjamin Lucas remains optimistic, urging against speculation on the failure of discussions.
