Michel Barnier Appointed French Prime Minister Amid Political Controversy

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Michel Barnier as the new Prime Minister following inconclusive elections. The decision has sparked reactions from across the political spectrum, with figures from the far-right to the far-left expressing skepticism and concern about Barnier’s capacity to address key issues such as cost of living, security, and immigration.

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Michel Barnier, the European Union's former Brexit negotiator, as his new prime minister on Thursday, after weeks of drawn-out talks following an inconclusive snap election.

Reactions flowed in from various political figures in France and Europe. Jordan Bardella of the far-right National Rally criticized the delay in Barnier's appointment and demanded action on urgent issues such as cost of living, security, and immigration. Marine Le Pen echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that her party would not join any form of Barnier's government.

From the far-left, Jean-Luc Melenchon of the NPF accused Macron of disregarding the election results, labeling the appointment a denial of popular sovereignty. The Centre-left socialists announced plans to censure Barnier's government, citing a break from republican tradition. Meanwhile, former PM Edouard Philippe and EU leaders like Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Tajani expressed their support and extended congratulations to Barnier.

(With inputs from agencies.)