Mass Protests Erupt in France Against Macron's Prime Minister Appointment

Thousands of protesters rallied across France on Saturday, opposing President Emmanuel Macron's appointment of centre-right Michel Barnier as prime minister. Left-wing parties accuse Macron of disregarding electoral results and appointing Barnier despite their victory. Barnier, a former EU Brexit negotiator, faces significant challenges amid a fragmented parliament and potential no-confidence vote.

Thousands of people took to the streets across France on Saturday to protest President Emmanuel Macron's decision to appoint centre-right Michel Barnier as prime minister. The protests were fueled by left-wing parties accusing Macron of ignoring the results of the legislative elections.

Macron named 73-year-old Barnier, a conservative and the European Union's former Brexit negotiator, as prime minister on Thursday. This appointment concluded a two-month-long search following Macron's unsuccessful attempt to call a legislative election, which resulted in a hung parliament divided into three blocs. In his first interview as prime minister, Barnier indicated that his government would include conservatives, members of Macron's camp, and hopefully some from the left.

Barnier faces the daunting task of implementing reforms and managing the 2025 budget, with France under pressure from the European Commission and bond markets to reduce its deficit. The left, led by the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, has accused Macron of a denial of democracy and election theft. A poll by Elabe revealed that 74% of French people felt Macron had disregarded the election results, with 55% believing he had stolen the election.

In response to Barnier's appointment, left-wing party leaders, unions, and student bodies called for mass protests on Saturday. Barnier continued consultations on Saturday as he attempts to form a government. His administration faces a potential no-confidence vote, especially with an urgent draft budget for 2025 due to be discussed in parliament at the start of October.

The New Popular Front (NFP) and the far-right National Rally (RN) together hold a majority and could oust Barnier via a no-confidence vote if they collaborate. The RN offered conditional support for Barnier, making it a crucial player in the new government. 'He is a prime minister under surveillance,' RN party leader Jordan Bardella told BFM on Saturday. 'Nothing can be done without us.'

(With inputs from agencies.)