Macron Rejects NFP’s Leadership Bid, Calls for Cooperation Amid Political Gridlock

French President Emmanuel Macron has firmly rejected the possibility of forming a government led by the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP), which emerged as the largest party in last month’s legislative elections. Macron emphasized that France requires institutional stability and expressed doubts about the NFP’s ability to secure a confidence vote in Parliament. The NFP, which has proposed civil servant Lucie Castets as its prime ministerial candidate, responded by calling for street protests and Macron’s impeachment.

In the fragmented political landscape, no single group has achieved a majority, with the NFP securing over 190 seats, Macron’s centrist Ensemble alliance 160 seats, and the far-right National Rally (RN) 140 seats. As a result, France has been led by a caretaker government during the Paris Olympics. Macron has indicated his intention to continue consultations with party leaders to resolve the impasse, urging the left to collaborate with other political forces.

The NFP’s reaction has been notably severe, with accusations of an “anti-democratic coup” and warnings of a “serious crisis” from its leaders. Despite the pressure, Macron has not mentioned the hard-left France Unbowed movement (LFI), a significant component of the NFP. The NFP’s call for Castets to be considered for prime minister remains unfulfilled, as Macron and other political figures, including RN leaders and potential candidates like Bernard Cazeneuve and Xavier Bertrand, navigate the complex political scenario.

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