Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across France on Saturday, voicing their discontent with President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to appoint Michel Barnier, a centre-right politician, as prime minister. The protesters, estimated to be around 300,000 in number, including 160,000 in Paris, accused Macron of disregarding the results of the recent legislative elections and betraying the trust of the people.
The demonstrations, which were peaceful, saw protesters carrying banners and placards criticizing Macron’s decision, with some even calling for his impeachment. The left-wing parties, led by Jean-Luc Melenchon’s France Unbowed party, have been vocal in their opposition to Barnier’s appointment, accusing him of being a conservative who will push for spending cuts and a tougher stance on immigration.
Barnier, who was named prime minister on Thursday, faces the daunting task of forming a government without a clear majority and passing the 2025 budget, all while facing the threat of a no-confidence vote in October. The 73-year-old former Brexit negotiator has promised to include conservatives, members of Macron’s camp, and some from the left in his future government, but his lack of a clear majority makes his position precarious.
The demonstrations come as France is under pressure from the European Commission and bond markets to reduce its deficit, and the left believes that Barnier’s appointment will only exacerbate the situation. The protesters’ demands for action on the worsening condition of the public health sector, which has been neglected for months, were met with promises from Barnier to make improvements, but his lack of a clear plan has only added to the discontent.
As Barnier continued consultations on Saturday to form a government, the far-right National Rally party gave its tacit approval for his appointment, citing conditions for its support. This makes the party the de facto kingmaker for the new government, and its leader, Jordan Bardella, warned that Barnier is a “prime minister under surveillance” and that “nothing can be done without us.”
