Macron's Prime Minister Appointment Sparks Controversy

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Michel Barnier, the EU's former Brexit negotiator, as his new prime minister. This appointment follows weeks of negotiations after an inconclusive snap election, with reactions from various political figures highlighting deep divisions and concerns over democratic processes.

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Michel Barnier, the European Union's former Brexit negotiator, as his new prime minister on Thursday. The decision comes after weeks of drawn-out talks following an inconclusive snap election.

Political reactions have been mixed, with Jordan Bardella, president of the far-right National Rally (RN), criticizing the delay as 'unworthy of a great democracy,' and emphasizing the need to address major issues like the cost of living, security, and immigration.

Marine Le Pen, leader of the RN parliamentary party, stated they would not participate in any government led by Barnier. Far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon accused Macron of denying the election results, calling it a 'stolen' election. NPF member Mathilde Panot described the appointment as an 'unacceptable democratic coup' and called for public protests.