French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has formed a new government with 39 members from center and right-wing parties, sparking criticism from left-wing parties. The government includes members from President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist alliance and Barnier’s conservative party, The Republicans.
Key appointments include Jean-Noel Barrot as the new minister for Europe and foreign affairs, Bruno Retailleau as the minister of the interior, and Antoine Armand as the minister of economy and finance. However, the absence of candidates from left-wing and far-right parties has raised concerns about the government’s legitimacy.
Left-wing leaders like Olivier Faure and Jean-Luc Melenchon have criticized Barnier’s government, with plans to launch a vote of no confidence in the National Assembly. On the other hand, far-right leader Marine Le Pen has called for a major change in the government.
Barnier, a former Brexit negotiator, aims to address the country’s challenges and suffering. His immediate task is to finalize the 2025 budget draft and submit it for voting in the National Assembly.