Locations Affected: France
Mass protests occurred in France against the appointment of Michael Barnier as the Prime Minister (PM). The demonstrations were called by France Unbowed (LFI), part of the political alliance New Popular Front (NFP). Demonstrators also demanded President Emmanuel Macron to resign.
The cause of the protests
Barnier’s appointment as the PM comes two months after the snap general election called by President Macron in July. The election resulted in a hung parliament, with three blocs consisting of the New Popular Front, Renaissance Party, and National Rally (RN), as no political party achieved a majority.
The LFI has accused Macron of disregarding the election results. Macron has refused to elect Lucie Castets, the candidate from the NPF who won the most votes in the general election, as the PM. Barnier’s party Les Republicans finished fourth in the election with less than 50 lawmakers in the parliament.
Political tensions and potential of a no-confidence vote
- Marches were held in 130 towns and cities across France, including Paris, Nice, Marseille, Strasbourg, and Nantes. The organizers reported about 300,000 people participated in the protests across France, including 160,000 in Paris.
- According to a survey by Pollster Elabe published on 06 September, 74 percent of French citizens consider that Macron has disregarded the election results, with 55 percent believing he has ‘stolen’ the election.
- The NFP alliance believes that Barnier is likely to push wholesale spending cuts and a tougher stance on immigration.
- Barnier continued consultations on 07 September to form a new government as he faces a potential no-confidence vote.
- The NFP had threatened to lodge a motion of no confidence if their candidate was not selected as the PM before Barnier’s appointment. A no-confidence motion backed by the NFP and RN could oust Barnier as they would jointly hold a majority. The RN has not yet confirmed their support for Barnier and cited various conditions for not supporting a no-confidence vote, making it a de facto decision-maker for the new government.
Implications of Barnier’s appointment
Barnier’s appointment as the PM of France is likely to heighten political tensions in the country. Further protests against the appointment can be anticipated, with protestors expected to gather at places like Place de la Bastille and National Assembly building in Paris. Heightened security measures and traffic restrictions can be expected in case of demonstrations to maintain public order and avoid traffic congestion. Large crowds of protestors can lead to traffic delays. Organizations are advised to remain updated on the situation and prepare necessary contingency plans.
