Written by Lisa Murimi
Reappointed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has called on France’s political parties to end what he described as a “ridiculous spectacle” and work together to steer the nation out of its worsening political turmoil.
Lecornu, who faces a Monday deadline to present a national budget, urged unity to avoid a further escalation of France’s fiscal and political instability.
Speaking on Saturday, Lecornu criticized the political deadlock that has gripped France in recent days, saying the country’s leaders had turned governance into a “spectacle.”
He appealed to lawmakers to overcome divisions and collaborate to pass a new budget before year-end, describing it as crucial to controlling France’s widening fiscal deficit.
Lecornu stated that his mission was clear — to ensure France has a functioning state and social security budget by December 31. He added that success would depend on whether political forces chose cooperation over confrontation.
His remarks come as President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to reappoint him has sparked outrage among opponents, who insist that the only way out of what they call France’s worst political crisis in decades is for Macron to call new legislative elections or step down.
Asked about possible concessions, Lecornu signaled flexibility on pension reform, a key demand from left-wing parties, saying that “all debates are possible as long as they are realistic.”
Analysts say this could open the door for limited compromise on one of Macron’s most controversial policies.
Lecornu, a close Macron ally, was reappointed Friday night, just days after resigning over an inability to secure support for a slimmed-down budget bill in the deeply divided parliament. His first term lasted only 27 days, making him France’s shortest-serving prime minister in modern history.
However, with leftist, far-left, and far-right parties vowing to topple his government, it remains uncertain whether he can last longer this time.
By Monday, Lecornu must present a draft budget to the cabinet and parliament, and appoint ministers in charge of finance, budget, and social security.
He has promised a cabinet of “renewal and diversity,” insisting that all members abandon personal ambitions for the 2027 presidential race.
Lecornu has yet to unveil the budget details but previously said France’s deficit target would be reduced to between 4.7% and 5% of GDP next year — higher than his predecessor’s 4.6% goal but below this year’s 5.4% projection.
