France's Political Turmoil: No-Confidence Vote Topples Government

France's Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his cabinet have been ousted following a no-confidence vote inspired by budget disputes. This political shake-up marks the first resignation of a French government since 1962. President Emmanuel Macron, despite this setback, reaffirms his intent to continue his presidency until 2027.

In an unprecedented political upheaval, France's far-right and left-wing legislators united on Wednesday to pass a historic no-confidence vote, effectively compelling Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his Cabinet to resign. This marks France's first government dissolution due to a no-confidence motion since 1962.

The motion was passed by the National Assembly with 331 votes, surpassing the 288-vote threshold. President Emmanuel Macron stated his intention to remain in office until 2027, despite the political turmoil. He is set to appoint a new prime minister soon, after July's elections resulted in a fractured parliament.

The vote stemmed from strong opposition to Barnier's proposed budget, with the far-right National Rally and the left-wing New Popular Front aligning against austerity measures. Macron's challenge now is to find a consensus candidate in a divided National Assembly while managing the repercussions on financial markets amidst pressures to reduce France's debt.

(With inputs from agencies.)