Former Brexit Negotiator Named French Prime Minister

Former chief Brexit negotiator for the European Union Michel Bernier, has been named France’s new prime minister.

On September 5, 2024, President Emmanuel Macron officially named Michel Barnier as the France’s new prime minister succeeding Gabriel Attal who resigned after centrist coalition defeat.

This appointment follows the 50 days of France unstable government after the snap parliamentary election in July 2024 which divided the national assembly making it difficult for legislative function, as no party or coalition secured the majority seats.

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There have been mixed reactions on Barnier’s appointment due to divided political landscape. Leaders of the far-left, Jean-Luc Mélenchon in particular, has expressed dissatisfaction with Barnier’s appointment. He argued that leftist alliance performed better in elections, claiming the appointment does not reflect the will of the voters.

While far right on the other hand (National Rally), led by Marine Le Pen, did not reject Barnier, but they will wait and judge him based on his plans and policies majorly on issues such as security and immigration. However, the party distanced themselves from fully endorsing him, saying that they would not participate in any government hearing until his plans are clear

Barnier’s most important task is to unify the government and stabilize the political situation that is now split of the far left, far right and centrist coalition with each party holding different visions for France.