Lecornu Unveils New French Cabinet Amid Mounting Political Unrest

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced his new cabinet on Sunday, retaining most of his previous top ministers despite pledging “renewal and diversity.” Reappointed just last week after a short 27-day tenure, Lecornu kept key figures such as Finance Minister Roland Lescure, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, and Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin. Catherine Vautrin, a centre-right veteran, replaced Lecornu as defence minister, while Laurent Nunez, Paris police chief and former intelligence head, took over the interior portfolio.

The reshuffle comes at a critical moment as France faces a deep political crisis and urgent budget deadlines. Hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) and the far-right National Rally have announced no-confidence motions, setting up a tense parliamentary vote later this week. The Socialist Party, whose backing is vital for the government’s survival, remains undecided, with leader Olivier Faure declining to comment on the new appointments.

With France’s parliament fractured into opposing ideological blocs, Lecornu must steer the upcoming budget through treacherous negotiations. Key opposition demands include repealing Macron’s pension reform and reintroducing a wealth tax, both resisted by conservatives. Acknowledging the political uncertainty, Lecornu said he would not hesitate to resign again if “conditions were no longer met,” signalling the fragile balance of power in French politics.

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